Chanel Bags Switch from Serial Stickers to Microchips in 2021 (2024)

Chanel Bags Switch from Serial Stickers to Microchips in 2021 (1)

Have you recently purchased a Chanel bag from the boutique, only to find no traces of the familiar hologram serial sticker and accompanying authenticity card?

Fret not!

As of April 2021, Chanel has launched a new method of authenticating its handbags and chain wallets.

Gone are the serial stickers and matching authenticity cards you’ve been accustomed to for decades.

Instead, they’re replaced by microchips with all the bag’s authenticating details digitally embedded inside the bags.

With so much new technology available these days, it’s no surprise that the luxury market is following suit with innovative methods to preserve its product integrity.

Welcome to Chanel’s 21st-century authentication system!

Chanel Bags Switch from Serial Stickers to Microchips in 2021 (2)

The Chanel Serial Sticker and Authenticity Card: A Brief History

Chanel bags didn’t always have serial stickers nor authenticity cards.

It wasn’t until 1984 when all bags came with their own sticker that displayed a unique serial number for each bag.

Introduced alongside the sticker was a corresponding authenticity card that matched the serial number. This black plastic credit-card-sized card was typically found inside the bag, often in the inner pocket.

Also referred to as a date code or authenticity code, the digits in the serial number were specific to the bag and indicated the time and place that the bag was produced.

Over the years, the stickers went through six design versions.

The all-numerical serial numbers also changed, starting with a 6-digit code in the mid-80s and increasing to 8 digits in 2021.

Since the most recent 8-digit codes start with 31 or 32, bags carrying these codes may be the last of their kind to have stickers and authenticity cards before migrating to the new microchip system.

Bags from the 21A collection and beyond will be microchipped.

Chanel Bags Switch from Serial Stickers to Microchips in 2021 (3)

The New Chanel Microchip Explained

The first thing you’ll notice about the new Chanel authentication system is the metal plate that replaces the serial sticker.

The plate is a small rectangle about 1.2 inches wide, attached to the inside of the bag. The metal color matches the rest of the bag’s hardware for a uniform aesthetic.

The classic interlacing CC logo is engraved on the plate, with an 8-digit – nowalphanumeric– serial code underneath.

The actual microchip is embedded inside the plate.

The chip uses NFC technology (near-field communication), allowing specific devices to share data with other NFC-equipped devices (think Apple Pay).

It also uses blockchain technology, a system of storing data that’s virtually impossible to edit or alter once on record.

The information on the scannable chip not only verifies authenticity but also has access to the bag’s entire life cycle – from creation to distribution, from purchase to repairs, etc.

The microchip data can only be scanned with proprietary machines by Chanel sales associates and managers at the boutiques.

The Benefits of Chanel Microchips

The obvious benefit of the new microchip over the former authentication system is that stickers wear off or fade over time, and authenticity cards get lost.

Without one of these, the value of the bag depreciates significantly in the resale market.

In fact, selling a bag without a serial sticker can be impossible.

But the greatest benefit of the microchip is in knowing that your bag is authentic.

It’s the ultimate safeguard against counterfeits, which have gotten increasingly sophisticated and more challenging to discern over the years.

They may have been able to copy serial stickers and authenticity cards to some passable degree so far.

But these microchips are nearly impossible to replicate.

Counterfeiters won’t have the technology or tools to reproduce them, let alone scan them to fish out deceiving information.

Now it will be easier than ever to spot these “superfake” bags, and you’ll have complete certainty that your bag is genuine.

How to Authenticate Microchipped Bags With Resellers

The new Chanel bags will have microchips that the staff can only scan at the boutiques.

So how, now, would you have confidence in buying them from places like Madison Avenue Couture?

We have already bought and sold bags with microchips and are familiar with their placement and the code.

Of course, we’re also very familiar with the hologram and authenticity card from every series.

However, be it a microchip or a hologram sticker, it is only one of many checkpoints in authenticating a bag.

We rigorously inspect all components of the bag to ensure that it is 100% authentic.

We stand behind our exceptional reputation for delivering you total assurance that your next Chanel bag from us is the real deal.

Browse our collection of Chanel beauties now.

Chanel Bags Switch from Serial Stickers to Microchips in 2021 (2024)

FAQs

When did Chanel switch to microchip? ›

The microchip codes came about in 2021 in Chanel bags and within the products of other large luxury designer brands, as a new and innovative response to fake products upsetting the marketplace.

Do new Chanel bags have microchips? ›

The new Chanel Microchip

The metal plate hardware matches the rest of the bag's hardware and features the classic CC logo engraved with an 8-digit serial code underneath. However, unlike Chanel's previous serial number system, the new serial number does not reveal the production year.

How do you authenticate a Chanel bag 2021? ›

Examine the Interlocking Logo

At the top of the logo, the C on the right comes in front of the C on the left. At the bottom, the C on the right passes behind the one on the right. If the logo is flat, or if it is not perfectly centered both vertically and horizontally on the leather flap, it is a fake Chanel bag.

Why does my Chanel bag not have a serial number? ›

Because serial numbers pre-2000's are not protected by any tape, many vintage Chanel bags may be missing their serial number stickers. Some serial number stickers become loose and authenticity cards are lost, that in itself doesn't mean a Chanel bag is a counterfeit.

Do all Chanel bags have microchip? ›

As authentication practices advance and outsmart the counterfeiters, Chanel has upped their game by replacing all stickers and authenticity cards with metal plates, or microchips.

Do all Chanel bags have a made in stamp? ›

Inside every Chanel bag, a brand stamp is embossed directly onto the lining or an attached leather patch. The brand stamp should be the same color as the bag's hardware; a bag with gold hardware should have a gold brand stamp, and a bag with silver hardware should have a silver brand stamp.

How do I know if my Chanel serial number is real? ›

For example, codes on a Chanel Classic 2.55 will be in the front left corner of the bag, and should always match the serial number inside the bag. Each serial number reflects when the bag was made – if a brand-new code has a serial number or sticker which reflected an older model, this will indicate a fake Chanel bag.

When did Chanel stop gold plating bags? ›

Prior to 2009, Chanel bags were made with real 24k gold hardware. In late 2008 (08/09 Cruise collection), Chanel stopped making hardware with real 24k gold-plated hardware, and instead, started to use gold-toned hardware.

How much does Chanel authentication cost? ›

Chanel Wallet Authentication

The price is fixed for any Chanel item and it starts with $20 per verbal authentication. To have your Chanel wallet checked, order the service and send us detailed pictures of your item, including hardware, signs of wear, inside, stamp and serial number.

How do I tell what year my Chanel bag 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.)

Does Ebay authenticate Chanel? ›

The eligible brands for Authenticity Guarantee are Alexander McQueen, Balenciaga, Bottega Veneta, Burberry, Bvlgari, Celine, Chanel, Chloé, Christian Louboutin, Dior, Dolce & Gabbana, Fendi, Givenchy, Goyard, Gucci, Hermès, Judith Leiber, Loewe, Louis Vuitton, MCM, Prada, Saint Laurent, Salvatore Ferragamo, Tom Ford, ...

Can I sell a Chanel bag without authenticity card? ›

Don't Forget To Include Any Proof of Authenticity!

A box, bag, authenticity card, receipt, anything! It will not only add value to the item you are selling, but it will also help prove the authenticity of the item and the buyer will be SO happy to have it.

Can two Chanel bags have the same serial number? ›

The Chanel serial numbers are, unlike Louis Vuitton date codes, unique to a specific item. Meaning two Chanel bags can never have the same serial number.

How many digits is Chanel serial number? ›

Eight digit serial number printed on white sticker covered with clear tape with two Chanel logos. "X" cut-lines prevent sticker from being removed without damage. "CHANEL" appears on rightright side of the sticker. Dark line appears on left side of sticker.

Do all Chanel bags have stickers? ›

Chanel started using date codes in 1984. Since then, every bag comes with a sticker containing a serial number as well as a corresponding authenticity card. Date code stickers can usually be found on the inside lining and will vary depending on the year the bag was made.

Are Chanel bags guaranteed for life? ›

The first one, entitled CHANEL Warranty, pledges an exclusive 5-year guarantee for all CHANEL handbags and CHANEL wallets on chain, deepening the relationship between client and House.

Are Chanel bags traceable? ›

The serial number can be traced by Chanel to detail what the bag is and when and where it was bought so it is key to proving authenticity and pretty hard to copy. Beyond just “having a serial number” each hologram has its own personality. For example, some numbers are serifs, some zeros have strikethrough etc.

How do you verify microchip? ›

You need to have the whole number to check if the microchip is registered. Microchip numbers do not contain any letters or symbols. On some forms you may see 3 extra numbers, it's generally the first 15 digits that you need to be concerned with.

How do I protect my Chanel serial number? ›

It can be adhere to fabric or leather lining directly or on a piece of rectangular leather tab which is attached to the lining. The serial number is either or not protected with a piece of glittered transparent film, depending on the year of production.

Are all Chanel buttons stamped? ›

Real authentic Chanel buttons

New Chanel buttons do not have stamping on the back. Vintage authentic Chanel buttons have stamping on the back. New Chanel buttons are often copied in China and very similar to the real (new) Chanel buttons. Real Chanel buttons (especially the Vintage) are looking like little jewels.

Do Chanel buttons have stamp on back? ›

The way to spot authentic vintage Chanel buttons is often through the stamping on the back. Buttons are frequently replicated and look very similar to the original ones. The counterfeit buttons are often made from a cheaper material, have a more obvious stamping, and will be lighter in weight.

What does the Chanel serial number tell you? ›

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”.

What is considered a vintage Chanel bag? ›

Shop pre-loved Chanel handbags:

Anything 20 years old or more is officially classed as vintage, so bags made from 2000 onwards tend be tagged as pre-loved instead.

Which Chanel bag is considered classic? ›

The Chanel Classic bag is this storied design house's most iconic fashion accessory. Based on the Chanel 2.55 bag — the first shoulder bag considered socially acceptable for fashionable women of class and distinction to wear — the Classic flap bag has been updated throughout the years.

Are old Chanel bags worth anything? ›

How much is a vintage Chanel bag worth? Well, that, of course, depends on the purse, as the prices vary considerably, from $500 to $10,000. If you're interested in a flap purse (not even a classic one but a similar design), a secondhand Chanel purse will cost you at least $2,000.

How much does it cost to get a bag authenticated? ›

$30 Basic Authentication

Includes an official Authentic or Counterfeit determination.

What is the new limit for Chanel? ›

The brand-wide policy will restrict each client to only two Classic Flap Bags per year. At the time of writing, the quota system will not be affecting styles such as the Chanel 19s, Coco Handles, the Trendy CC, and Boy bags.

Is Entrupy reliable Chanel? ›

How accurate are the results? Entrupy Authentication has a 99.1 percent accuracy rate. While it is highly unlikely that an inauthentic item will be misidentified as authentic, we provide a financial guarantee to protect the certificate holder from financial losses due to errant results.

Can you check a Chanel bag with serial number? ›

Yes, you can look up your serial number to find out which year and model bag. You can verify your bag's date by looking up the year of its production on a code chart. Chanel bags made in 2020 should have 30XXXXXX as a date code.

What does Chanel 22a mean? ›

For those who are wondering what the first 2 numbers and letter means in your Chanel bag tags, read on! The first two numbers identifies the year the bag was made. While the letter stands for the Collection that the bag came from. There are four different collection for every Chanel bag. A is the Autumn Collection.

Do fake designer bags have serial numbers? ›

In some cases, designers also include authenticity labels on the outside of the bag. Chanel actually comes with a physical card separate of the bag, which has a 6-number serial code. Some fake bags may have authenticity tags, but the text will be in a different font and size than the original.

What happens if my eBay authenticity guarantee isn't authentic? ›

If the inspector cannot determine that the product is authentic, or if the product is not as described in the listing, the item will be returned to you and the buyer will receive their money back. If the item passes inspection, it will be sent to the buyer with fast and free, tracked delivery.

How accurate is eBay authentication? ›

Does Ebay Really Authenticate Shoes? EBay uses independent authenticators to make sure sneakers bought through it's authentication program are legitimate. Using independent checkers helps ensure zero bias towards selling an authentic product.

How do I avoid authenticity guarantee on eBay? ›

There is no opt in or opt out option. Items included in the eBay Authenticity Guarantee program display a blue Authenticity Guarantee check mark badge. Buyers will see the badge in the search results page, the view item page, the checkout page and their Purchase history page.

Does Chanel lose value without authenticity card? ›

The card was lost

Now what you need to know is that buying Chanel bag without authenticity card is quite risky as such bags are worth less that those that come with a full set. If you think about reselling the purse later, check whether the price matches the value first.

Do pawn shops buy Chanel bags? ›

While pawnshops in the middle of the country may not buy and sell these high-price items, in markets such as Southern California, where pawnbrokers have access to inventory from the local community, pawnshops do buy and sell authentic Chanel handbags.

Does Chanel replace authenticity card? ›

As of April 2021, Chanel has launched a new method of authenticating its handbags and chain wallets. Gone are the serial stickers and matching authenticity cards you've been accustomed to for decades. Instead, they're replaced by microchips with all the bag's authenticating details digitally embedded inside the bags.

Does Chanel limit how many bags you can buy? ›

Customers are limited to a single purchase of each Chanel bag style, including the Classic Flap (pictured) per year..

What is a Chanel hologram sticker? ›

The hologram sticker, or the serial number sticker, is quite important. It's the way to identify you're particular Chanel bag. It also proves authenticity. However, authenticity can also be proven by just feeling, or sometimes just looking at the bag.

Does Chanel have a limit on bags? ›

Yes, that's right, as of June 7th, 2022, the new purchase policy is two classics per year (any size, any color). This is big news for many Chanel lovers, and especially for those of us that are used to purchasing multiple bags per year. What if you've already purchased two Classic Flaps before June 7th?

What is microchip Chanel? ›

The Chanel microchip system replaces the serial sticker with a small rectangular metal plate (about 1.2" wide). For bags, the metal plate is attached to the handbag's interior, whereas for Wallet on Chains, the metal plate can be found inside the zip pocket.

What is Chanel's iconic number? ›

The number five was the most important of these numbers. The number five first appeared in Chanel mythology in the 1920's when in 1921 the sample number five was selected from the perfume options presented to Ernst Bo which went on to become the famous perfume Chanel №5.

When did Chanel stop using Real gold Hardware? ›

In late 2008, Chanel pivoted from 24k gold hardware to gold-toned hardware, subtly differentiating vintage and modern pieces. Lagerfeld was a master of branding and quickly modernized the luxury fashion house, as evidenced through his transformation of the interlocking “CC” design.

When did Chanel start using Light gold Hardware? ›

In late 2008 (08/09 Cruise collection), Chanel stopped making hardware with real 24K gold-plated hardware; instead, they started using gold-toned hardware. "Before late 2008, Chanel classic flaps with gold-colored hardware (chains, clasps, grommets, and CC turnlocks) were plated in real 24K gold.

When did Chanel stop using lizard skin? ›

On May 31, 2019, Chanel will no longer produce any accessories using exotics. In December 2018, Chanel announced that they planned to no longer create products made from snakes, crocodiles, lizards, and stingrays because of ethical issues. Now, that announcement has hit the production floor.

When did Chanel stop using 18k gold? ›

Widely revered for the expert craftsmanship of the bags and use of real gold-plated hardware, vintage Chanel bags (pre-2008) are made with an alloy containing 24-karat gold coated on the metal. However, Chanel discontinued making bags with real 24k gold hardware since its Cruise 08/09 collection.

Does the gold hardware from Chanel tarnish? ›

There is a chance however that over time, well-loved Chanel hardware may tarnish. In order to minimise this, make sure to invest in a professional jewellery polishing cloth, store your bag in a non-humid environment, and treat it to its complimentary after-purchase SACLÀB spa trip when it's in need of some extra TLC.

Does vintage Chanel gold hardware wear off? ›

No, Chanel Gold hardware does not wear off.

What is the difference between gold and light gold Chanel? ›

Light Gold – a shiny more pale lighter champagne gold. Aged Gold – a gold that has a more rustic finish.

Which is better Chanel gold or Silver hardware? ›

Silver is often described as more modern and younger looking, whereas gold is often described as classic and luxurious. I personally adore the look of black leather with shiny gold. Silver hardware on Chanel double flaps is less common. Silver hardware is also less susceptible to color change and chipping.

Can you check Chanel authenticity? ›

All Chanel bags after 1984 will comes with a sticker containing their unique serial number as well as a corresponding authenticity card, which usually can be found inside the bag. Gold speckles should be scattered over the number. The gold speckles shouldn't be too big ,too evenly or too concentrated.

Are all Chanel bags stamped? ›

Every Chanel bag has the brand stamped onto the lining. Sometimes the brand name Chanel is stamped on an attached pouch of the same leather. The color of the brand stamp should perfectly match the color of your bag's hardware.

Is Chanel no longer using exotic skins? ›

Chanel has become the first luxury fashion house in the world to stop using exotic animal skins, like snake, crocodile, lizard and stingray. The company's head of fashion, Bruno Pavlovsky, said it had become harder to source such pelts ethically.

Does Chanel still use animal skin? ›

In a monumental victory for animals, Chanel announced that it had banned fur and exotic skins—including crocodile, lizard, and snake skin! This move follows decades of pressure from PETA and means that countless animals will be spared a miserable life and a painful, violent death.

Does Chanel use real snake skin? ›

The internationally renowned French fashion house announced that it will stop producing garments and accessories made from animal fur, as well as leathery skins such as crocodile, lizard and snake.

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