The Hermès Blind Stamp: How to Read and Date Your Bag

A Simple Guide to Decoding One of Hermès' Most Trusted Markings

When it comes to verifying the authenticity and age of a Hermès bag, few details are as crucial—yet as often overlooked—as the blind stamp. Stamped discreetly into the leather, this tiny code reveals when (and sometimes where) your Hermès bag was crafted.

Understanding how to read the Hermès blind stamp can help buyers authenticate vintage finds, evaluate market value, and even uncover special artisan details.

What Is the Hermès Blind Stamp?

The blind stamp is a discreet embossing found on nearly every Hermès bag. It usually includes:

• A letter (representing the year of manufacture)
• Possibly a shape (square, circle, etc.) depending on the time period
• An artisan ID code (letters and numbers representing the craftsperson and workshop)

It’s typically located behind the flap or on the interior side of the bag’s strap or panel.

Artisan Codes: Who Made Your Bag?

Alongside the year stamp, most Hermès bags feature a craftsman ID made up of letters and numbers. These codes refer to the specific artisan and workshop that produced the bag.

While Hermès keeps the artisan identities confidential, repeat buyers or collectors can sometimes trace the consistency or quality of bags from specific codes.

Tips for Reading the Stamp Correctly

• Use natural lighting and gently stretch the leather if needed (carefully!)
• Consult a Hermès date chart if you're unsure
• If there's no blind stamp visible, it might be hidden or worn—a common sign of aging but not necessarily inauthenticity

Why the Blind Stamp Matters for Buyers

For resale buyers, the blind stamp is:

• A quick authenticity checkpoint
• A way to confirm vintage status
• Insight into craftsmanship quality from a specific period

It’s not the only factor when authenticating a Hermès bag, but it’s an essential part of the puzzle.

Final Thought: A Hidden Story in Every Stitch

The Hermès blind stamp may be small, but it carries weight. It’s a code that connects your bag to a moment in time, a skilled artisan, and the legendary traditions of Hermès.

Explore more vintage Hermès treasures—each with its own story to tell—in our curated collection at handbag-sense.com.