The original prototype of the world-famous Hermès Birkin bag—designed in 1984 by Jane Birkin and the inspiration behind the iconic accessory—will be auctioned by Sotheby’s after 40 years. A legendary piece in both fashion history and pop culture, the bag will meet collectors following exhibitions in Paris, Hong Kong, and New York.
One of the most iconic and sought-after luxury bags in the world, the original Hermès Birkin prototype is set to go on sale once again after four decades. This unique handbag, designed with inspiration from actress and singer Jane Birkin—who passed away in 2023—will be auctioned on July 10 at Sotheby’s Fashion Icons sale in Paris.
The bag features Jane Birkin’s initials “J.B.” on its front flap and even includes a nail clipper attached to the shoulder strap. In 1994, Birkin donated the bag to the French AIDS charity Association Solidarité Sida, and it was later purchased in 2000 by Parisian collector Catherine Benier.
If you thought the Himalaya Birkin was the rarest bag in the world, this original prototype may soon claim that title. Adorned with vintage stickers and original design elements, the bag is seen as a living piece of fashion and pop culture history. As one of Jane Birkin’s most significant legacies in the worlds of art and fashion, it now awaits a new owner.
Morgane Halimi, Global Head of Handbags and Fashion at Sotheby’s, stated, “In fashion, some objects go beyond trends and become legend. Jane Birkin’s original Birkin bag represents exactly that kind of moment.” Halimi emphasized the bag’s unique place in fashion and suggested it ranks among extraordinary pieces like Princess Diana’s black sheep sweater or Freddie Mercury’s crown—items with record-breaking potential.
The Birkin bag legend began in 1984 during a chance encounter on a plane between Jane Birkin and then-Hermès CEO Jean-Louis Dumas. Birkin, in need of a spacious and practical bag to keep up with her fast-paced lifestyle, sketched her idea on an airplane sick bag. Unlike other Birkin models, this prototype includes several distinctive features: its size, metal rings, brass hardware, shoulder strap, zipper, and the nails on its base all set it apart.
