Louis Vuitton Date Codes Explained: How to Read Vintage & Modern LV Codes
Luxury lovers and first-time buyers alike often search for Louis Vuitton date codes when trying to authenticate a bag. While date codes can provide helpful information about when and where a piece was made, they are often misunderstood.
In this guide, we’ll explain how Louis Vuitton date codes work, how they changed over the years, and why a date code alone should never be used to authenticate a bag.
What Is a Louis Vuitton Date Code?
A Louis Vuitton date code is a small stamped code found inside many Louis Vuitton bags, wallets, and accessories. These codes were introduced in the early 1980s and were used to indicate the manufacturing location and production date of the item.
Contrary to popular belief, date codes are not serial numbers.
Multiple bags can share the same code if they were made in the same factory during the same production period.
Does Louis Vuitton Still Use Date Codes?
Not always.
Around 2021, Louis Vuitton began transitioning away from traditional stamped date codes and moved toward embedded microchips (RFID technology).
Many newer bags no longer contain visible date codes. Instead, Louis Vuitton boutiques can scan the embedded chip internally.
This means:
- Older bags typically have stamped date codes
- Transitional bags from 2019–2021 may have both
- Newer bags may only contain a microchip
How Louis Vuitton Date Codes Work
Louis Vuitton date codes changed over time, and understanding the format can help estimate when a piece was produced.
Early Vintage Louis Vuitton Pieces
Some very early vintage Louis Vuitton items from the early 1980s may contain shorter numeric-only production stamps rather than the later letter-and-number date codes.
These early markings were less standardized and can vary depending on the production period and style. Because of this, vintage Louis Vuitton authentication should always consider the overall craftsmanship, materials, hardware, and construction of the item rather than relying solely on a production code.
1980s–2006 Format
Most Louis Vuitton bags from the mid-1980s through 2006 use:
- 2 letters + 4 numbers
Example:
SP0998
- SP = Factory location
- 09 = Month
- 98 = Year (1998)
This means the item was made in September 1998.
Another example:
TH1905
- TH = Factory location
- 19 = Month? No. This format often confuses buyers.
For pre-2007 codes:
- First and third numbers = month
- Second and fourth numbers = year
So:
- 1 + 0 = October
- 9 + 5 = 1995
TH1905 indicates the item was made in October 1995.
2007–2021 Format
Louis Vuitton updated the system in 2007.
Example:
DU4180
- DU = Factory location
- First and third numbers = production week
- Second and fourth numbers = production year
So:
- 4 + 8 = 48th week
- 1 + 0 = 2010
DU4180 indicates the item was made in the 48th week of 2010.
This updated format is one of the most misunderstood areas of Louis Vuitton authentication.
Common Louis Vuitton Factory Codes
Some commonly seen factory codes include:
- SD = USA
- SP = France
- TH = France
- FL = France
- DU = France
- CA = Spain
- UB = Spain
- GI = Spain
- AR = France
Factory codes changed over time, and multiple countries produced the same styles.
A “Made in USA” Louis Vuitton bag can still be authentic.
Where to Find Louis Vuitton Date Codes
Date code placement depends on the style and era.
Common locations include:
- Inside pocket lining
- Under interior flaps
- Along side seams
- Inside card slots for wallets
- Beneath D-ring tabs
- Deep inside bucket bags
Older bags may have faded or worn stamps over time.
On many vintage Louis Vuitton pochettes, the date code is stamped on a small leather tab tucked inside the interior pocket lining. This older-style AR0094 stamp is a great example of a classic early 2000s placement.
Important: Date Codes Do NOT Authenticate a Bag
This is one of the biggest misconceptions in the preloved luxury world.
A real-looking date code does not automatically mean a bag is authentic.
Counterfeit bags often copy:
- Valid date codes
- Real factory letters
- Correct date combinations
Authenticating a Louis Vuitton item requires reviewing the full construction of the piece, including:
- Canvas texture
- Stitching
- Hardware
- Fonts
- Interior materials
- Heat stamps
- Symmetry
- Overall craftsmanship
Date codes are only one small part of the authentication process.
What About Bags Without Date Codes?
Not every Louis Vuitton item has a date code.
Examples include:
- Some vintage pieces
- Certain small accessories
- RFID-era bags
- Bags with worn or faded interiors
A missing date code does not automatically mean an item is fake.
Final Thoughts
Louis Vuitton date codes are a helpful tool for understanding the age and production details of a bag, but they should never be used as the sole method of authentication.
As the luxury resale market grows, education becomes increasingly important. Understanding how date codes work can help buyers shop more confidently and avoid common misconceptions when purchasing preloved Louis Vuitton.
At Curated Finds Co., every item is carefully reviewed and verified by trusted third-party authentication experts for added peace of mind.
Disclaimer:
Curated Finds Co. is not affiliated with or endorsed by Louis Vuitton. All trademarks belong to their respective owners.