In the early 1990s, Louis Vuitton moved the factory letters to the front of the date code and revised the numbering system. * The “874 SL” date code above indicates the bag was made in April of 1987 in France.Įarly 1990 to 2006 Date Codes: Two Letters with Four Digits In early 1980s date codes, the first two numbers indicate the year, and the last one or two numbers indicate the month of manufacturing.
Louis Vuitton changed the date code system in the mid-Eighties to include letters that indicate the factory location of manufacturing. Mid to Late 1980s Date Codes: Three or Four Digits with Two Letters
* The “853” date code in the bag above indicates the piece was made in March, 1985. The first two numbers indicate the year, and the last one or two numbers indicate the month of manufacturing. These codes consist of three to four-digit numbers, and no letters. Vuitton's first foray into dates codes began in 1982. Below is a quick guide to deciphering the meaning of date codes and what is the future of date codes as of 2021.Įarly 1980s and Before: No Date Codes Louis Vuitton did not use date codes before 1982, therefore older vintage pieces can not be pinpointed as accurately as newer ones.ġ982 to Mid 1980s Date Codes: Three or Four Digits Although counterfeit bags can have date codes that appear authentic, there are many other details to review when considering authenticity. Louis Vuitton has changed the date code configuration multiple times, but the date code will always contain letters and/or numbers.