Decoding Chanel: A Date Stamp Guide (2024)

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Authenticating a Chanel handbag can be somewhat complex. While there are many things to consider (see our complete Chanel Authenticity Guide), the date code is of particular importance. Not only will these help with authentication, but they'll also give you an estimation on the age of the bag, allowing you to better equip yourself prior to your purchase of a secondhand Chanel bag.

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”. Certain features about the date code stickers, style of numerals in the date code, and authenticity cards have changed somewhat over the years. Use theinformation & visuals below to assist you in determining inthe manufacturing age of your bagas well as whether your bag does or does not conform to those features (and thus whether there are any red flags about its authenticity). Keep in mind that Chanel only started using date codes in the mid-1980s.

While the placement of these date codes may vary, most bags will feature the serial code sticker placed directly on the lining. They are typically placed in corners, either facing up or down. Alternatively, they are adhered to a small leather tab inside the bag, also usually found in the corner.

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Quick Reference Chanel Date Code Chart

YEAR	DATE CODE FORMAT
2021	31XXXXXX
2020	30XXXXXX
2019	27XXXXXX or 28XXXXXX or 29XXXXXX
2018 - 2019	26XXXXXX
2018	25XXXXXX
2017 - 2018	24XXXXXX
2017	23XXXXXX
2016 - 2017	22XXXXXX
2015 - 2016	21XXXXXX
2014 - 2015	20XXXXXX
2014	19XXXXXX
2013 - 2014	18XXXXXX
2012 - 2013	17XXXXXX
2012	16XXXXXX
2011	15XXXXXX
2010 - 2011	14XXXXXX
2009 - 2010	13XXXXXX
2008 - 2009	12XXXXXX
2006 - 2008	11XXXXXX
2005 - 2006	10XXXXXX
2004 - 2005	9XXXXXX
2003 - 2004	8XXXXXX
2002 - 2003	7XXXXXX
2000 - 2002	6XXXXXX
1997 - 1999	5XXXXXX
1996 - 1997	4XXXXXX
1994 - 1996	3XXXXXX
1991 - 1994	2XXXXXX
1989 - 1991	1XXXXXX
1986 - 1988	0XXXXXX

Serial number:30XXXXXX / 31

XXXXXX

Year manufactured:2020 / 2021

Features:

8-digit serial numbers beginning with 30/31.The newest bags feature a serial number printed on a white sticker that is covered with transparent tape, with two Chanel logos above the serial number. The sticker has an “X” cut into it to prevent removal without damage. Adark vertical line is apparent running down the left side. The transparent tape is covered in faint iridescent specks in blue and gold. The 0 has strike through and 1 has small serifs or feet.