Original Birkin bag sells for Rs 86 crore; becomes most valuable handbag ever auctioned

The bag in question was crafted specifically for the British-French actress and singer Jane Birkin in 1984. According to the Associated Press, Birkin met then-Hermès CEO Jean-Louis Dumas on a flight to London. After spilling her belongings on the cabin floor, she commented on how handbags never seemed to have enough space. Dumas responded by sketching a new design for her, right there on an airplane vomit bag.

That offbeat sketch led to what would become one of fashion’s most enduring and exclusive status symbols. Hermès asked Birkin if they could use her name when they launched the bag commercially. She agreed, and the Birkin was born.

This exact prototype–the one Dumas had made for Birkin after their encounter–was the one that went under the hammer this week, ultimately landing in the hands of a private Japanese collector.

The original Hermès Birkin just sold for a jaw-dropping €7 million and this video captures the historic moment. Created 40 years ago, Jane Birkin’s personal bag marks the beginning of a global cultural phenomenon. Video via The Perfect Magazine (IG) pic.twitter.com/wPSmpZTSgj

— art8amby (@art8amby) July 10, 2025

Sotheby’s described the jet-black leather piece as “one of the most iconic fashion items ever created,” noting that it carries seven unique design features not found in any subsequent Birkin bags.

“More than just a bag, the Birkin has evolved from a practical accessory to become a timeless cultural icon,” Sotheby’s said. “Its presence spans the worlds of music, film, television and the arts; it is a red-carpet staple, a fashion magazine mainstay, and a coveted piece in the wardrobes of celebrities, artists and stylists.”

And while $10 million might seem like the peak, the Birkin still isn’t the priciest fashion item ever sold at auction. That honour belongs to the ruby red slippers worn in The Wizard of Oz, which went for a staggering $32.5 million in 2024, according to Sotheby’s.