A Collector’s Guide to Hermès Date Stamps

The Hermès Birkin and Kelly may be instantly recognizable, but its most important details are tucked inside. Discreet markings, often referred to as “date stamps” or “blind stamps” record the year of production, the workshop where it was created, and the artisan who crafted it. 

Unlike serial numbers dedicated to a specific bag, Hermès stamps reflect the era of creation. Tied to a specific time period, they document provenance and authenticity, telling you more about the bag than is evident at first glance. This guide helps you read those stories – one stamp at a time.

Finding a Hermès date stamp can feel like a treasure hunt, and placement varies by model and era. On Birkin and Kelly bags produced before 2016, the stamp is typically found on the back of the sangles – the exterior closure straps. Since 2016, Hermès has placed the stamp inside the bag, where it is generally located on the left side toward the rear. On the Mini Kelly, the stamp can be found inside the bag next to the interior pocket.

For the Constance, the date stamp is typically found inside the bag, along a side panel or the central divider.  On the Mini Lindy, the stamp is usually inside the interior pocket, while on the Evelyne, it is tucked into the inside of the closure strap. There is no single location across the Hermès collection, emphasizing the importance of knowing your model and its era. 

Since 1945, Hermès has used a series of date stamp formats to identify the year in which a piece was produced. These date stamps do more than simply date production; they also provide an important point of reference when assessing the piece as a whole. The date should correspond with the materials, colors, hardware, and design details associated with that period. For collectors and those assessing authenticity, these details may identify inconsistencies that may warrant a closer look.

The table below maps each date stamp to its corresponding production year, allowing you to quickly place a Hermès bag within the Maison’s timeline.

Although Hermès’ date stamp system follows a clear pattern, a small number of bags feature markings that differ from the format typically associated with their production year. Knowing about these variations can help collectors distinguish a genuine exception from a stamp that may raise questions about a bag’s authenticity.

In 2011, a small number of Hermès bags were produced with what collectors often refer to as a “double date stamp.” In these cases, the standard “O Square” date stamp appeared with a “J” craftsman mark. The exact reason for this variation remains unclear, but it has been observed across multiple models from that year and is accepted as a legitimate production quirk.

Towards the end of 2014, Hermès began transitioning to its current date stamp system. While most bags that year were marked with an “R” inside a square, some late-year pieces featured a standalone “R,” making them a crossover between two eras.

The date stamp is only one part of Hermès’ marking system. Additional symbols and notations provide further information about its materials, craftsmanship, or production circumstances. These may identify an exotic skin, indicate the artisan or workshop involved, or denote a special-order or employee piece. 

Understanding Hermès date stamps unlocks the hidden story behind every bag. For collectors and enthusiasts, these stamps are the key to tracing a bag’s journey from artisan hands to your wardrobe, while enforcing authenticity.

Thank you FASHIONPHILE for access to great date stamp close ups.

Read related articles:

An Insider’s Guide to Hermès Leathers

How to Choose the Perfect Hermès Birkin Size for You

Has the Hermès Blue Box Lost Some of Its Magic?

17 Hermès Birkin Styles You Need to Know

Hermès Birkin Bag Price Guide 2026

The Ultimate Guide to the Hermès Faubourg Birkin

Love, PurseBop

XO