Chanel’s classic handbags, like the Classic Double Flap serving as the most prominent example, have remained their unwaning popularity, coveted by most women due to their timeless elegance and ability to institute themselves as a status symbol.
In an attempt to target counterfeits (which were rampant, even back then in the mid-’80s), Chanel began tagging their handbags and accessories with serial number stickers in 1986.
Each Chanel-manufactured handbag came with its own unique serial number, which came embossed on each authenticity card issued with the product when purchased, and printed on a sticker attached somewhere on the handbag’s inner lining.
Though the serial numbers hardly contribute to determining the model or style of the handbag, they will however serve as a slight checkpoint in weeding out counterfeits. They also allow you to estimate the age of the bag.
A serial number beginning with "19", indicating that the bag was produced in 2014.
The serial number corresponds to certain time periods of manufacturing at Chanel. For example, beginning in 1986, the serial numbers of bags produced then began with “0######” with the beginning number increasing every one year or two; finally in 2020, the serial numbers on Chanel’s bags were “30######”.
Even certain features of the date code stickers and its matching authenticity cards have gradually changed over the years.
1986 - 2000 Chanel serial stickers
A vintage Chanel bagmanufactured some time between 1994 to 1996, featuring a serial number sticker with an opaque film and repetition of the "CC" logo throughout.
Beginning in 1986, the serial number stickers were covered with an opaque film with the interlocking “CC” logo spread throughout the white sticker (this feature was replaced with only a pair of interlocking “CC” placed directly above the serial numbers in 2000 onwards).
1997 - 2020 Chanel serial stickers
A 2018 Chanel bag with a serial number sticker sporting iridescent gold and blue glitter.
From 1997 on to 2020, the sticker evolved to feature a clear tape with gold and blue glitter throughout. The serial numbers are printed on two-layered holographic stickers printed with the serial number on the bottom layer, and inscribed on the top layer with an X, which prevents an authentic sticker from getting removed without being destroyed. The stickers have a gray vertical line on the left margin and a line with repeating “CHANEL” and the CC logo running vertically down the right margin.
There’s also notes to pick up from the numerals. From 2005 to 2020, the serial number consists of eight digits while from 1986 to 2005, there were only seven digits. If the serial number has a 0, the zero will feature a strikethrough in 1994 onwards while there isn’t a strikethrough on the zero if the bag is produced from 1986 to 1994.
Determining authenticity
However, Chanel’s serial number system isn’t exactly foolproof in its function of determining authenticity. With time, some serial number stickers may get detached from handbags; authentication cards can also be misplaced. Therefore, it is best to discern other features of the Chanel handbag to assess its authenticity, as a handbag missing these items may still be authentic.
In true fashion of keeping up with the times, Chanel rescinded its serial sticker system in 2021 and in its place, embedded microchips in a metal block attached to the inside of the bag. These microchips use blockchain technology that can be used to digitally verify a product’s authenticity and track its life cycle. Alleged to be impossible to be replicated by counterfeiters, this electronic system is aimed to improve the security and protection of Chanel’s intellectual property.
Chanel Serial Number Chart
To assist you further in determining the manufacturing age of your bag (if it was produced prior to 2021) as well as detect any discrepancies to your bag’s stated origins, use the chart we’ve compiled below.
Serial Number | Year Manufactured |
–– (Microchip) | 2021+ |
| 31###### | 2021 |
30###### | 2020 |
29###### | 2019 |
28###### | 2019 |
27###### | 2019 |
26###### | 2018-2019 |
25###### | 2018 |
24###### | 2017-2018 |
23###### | 2017 |
22###### | 2016-2017 |
21###### | 2015-2016 |
20###### | 2014-2015 |
19###### | 2014 |
18###### | 2013-2014 |
17###### | 2012-2013 |
16###### | 2012 |
15###### | 2011 |
14###### | 2010-2011 |
13###### | 2009-2010 |
12###### | 2008-2009 |
11###### | 2006-2008 |
10###### | 2005-2006 |
9###### | 2004-2005 |
8###### | 2003-2004 |
7###### | 2002-2003 |
6###### | 2000-2002 |
5###### | 1997-1999 |
4###### | 1996-1997 |
3###### | 1994-1996 |
2###### | 1991-1994 |
1###### | 1989-1991 |
0###### | 1986-1988 |
FAQs
The first number indicates the year of manufacture. From 2005 up until 2021, the stickers contained a series of 8 digits; the first two numbers indicating the year of manufacture. By knowing the year of manufacture, you can better determine which collection the Chanel bag belongs to.
What are the Chanel codes? ›
The date codes, sometimes referred to as authenticity codes or serial codes, on Chanel handbags consist of serial numbers that correspond to time periods during which the bags were manufactured. For example, the most recently manufactured bags have 8-digit serial numbers beginning with “30”.
How do I authenticate my Chanel authenticity card? ›
A quick way to see if the authenticity card is genuine is to see how many numbers make up the code. If the bag was made between 1984 and 1986 it will feature 6 digits, if it was made between 1986 and 2004 it will feature 7 digits, and if was made from 2005 onwards it will feature 8 digits.
Does each Chanel bag have a unique serial number? ›
Chanel authentication cards are no different from other luxury brands, the serial number on the card will match the serial number inside the handbag. Another thing to note is every serial number is unique to each Chanel handbag, meaning no handbags will ever have the same serial number.
Can I look up a Chanel serial number? ›
Chanel doesn't provide any services to check the codes and, as far as we know, there isn't any online Chanel serial number calculator either. However, you can still use the serial number to find out when your item was manufactured.
How do I find out what year my Chanel code is? ›
For 8 digit serial numbers, the year is determined by the first two digits (i.e. 24XXXXXX corresponds to late 2017-early 2018). If your bag has a 7 digit serial number, the year of production is determined by the first digit (i.e. 6XXXXXX corresponds to 2000-2002.)
What does B mean in Chanel? ›
It comes in a small black squeeze bottle with SPF 15 and is available in 13 shades. There are three undertones, B for beige (usually what I wear), BR beige rose (has pink undertones) and BD for beige dore which is the first time I've seen this color name but it might not be new.
What are the Chanel code colors? ›
The colours? Read on.. Immortelle (lilac), Ballerina (light pink), Ovni (a neon-ish yellow), Incendiare (red orange), Premier (also red orange but fractionally brighter), Diva (bright pink), Rouge Noir (needs no explanation), Cavalier Seul (sage green) and Fugueuse (a deep blue).
What does the P stand for in Chanel? ›
P = Printemps. This is the Spring season, or Spring/Summer Act 1. S = Summer. Or Spring/Summer Act Act 2. A = Métiers d'Art.
What is the serial number 10218184? ›
'Counterfeiters often use 10218184 and it is seen frequently in the Chanel Classic Flap styles but can be found in other styles as well,' Emily Erkel, cofounder and CMO of LePrix, told DailyMail.com. 'However, this does not mean a bag that has a different serial number is authentic or not authentic.
Authentic card is one of the most important way to spot fake Chanel. The “card system” was introduced the same time as the serial sticker in 1984. The number on the authentic card mush match the serial number inside the bag. A real authentic card shoulder never has a hologram, rainbow effect.
When did Chanel stop using authenticity cards? ›
Starting in April 2021, Chanel launched a new method to authenticate its bags and wallets: the era of serial numbers and matching authenticity cards that we have been accustomed to for decades is over. They are replaced by microchip with all the authentication details of the bag digitally embedded.
How much was a Chanel bag in 1980? ›
The vintage Chanel bags from Karl's early time with Chanel sell for multiples of the original retail price on secondary marketplaces like Sotheby's. The Chanel Classic Flap was released in 1983 and sold for about $1,000 in the 1980s and now that same bag in excellent condition sells for around $6,000.
Where should I sell my Chanel bag? ›
Sotheby's is the premier global destination for Modern & Vintage Chanel Bags and Chanel Jewelry. We also accept select Chanel Couture and Chanel Haute Couture for consignment. We make it simple to sell your Chanel bag since we offer free estimates and market your items to our global buyers in 85 countries.
What is microchip in Chanel bag? ›
Benefits of the Chanel Microchip
Microchips provide a more secure way of authenticating Chanel's items; they are also impossible to reproduce. It will be easier to distinguish an authentic bag from a "superfake," granting you more peace of mind that your bag is genuine!
Where can I check my Chanel bag serial number? ›
Between 2005 to the present day Chanel have adopted an eight-digit serial number. This is printed on white sticker covered with clear tape with two Chanel logos. "CHANEL" is printed on right hand side of the sticker and a dark line is printed along the left side of sticker. The sticker is flecked with gold speckles.
How do I find out how much my Chanel bag is worth? ›
Requesting an online appraisal of your luxury bag is simple. You just need to complete our appraisal form with a brief description and some photos. This information will be sent directly to one of our Chanel experts who will provide you with a price range and sales advice.
What year is Chanel Series 23? ›
How to Authenticate Chanel Bags & Serial Codes
| Serial Number | Year Manufactured |
|---|
| 23XXXXXX | 2016-2017 |
| 22XXXXXX | 2016-2017 |
| 21XXXXXX | 2015 to 2016 |
| 20XXXXXX | 2014 to 2015 |
22 more rows
