10 minutes. 9 bidders. And the OG Birkin sold for Rs 85 crore

The most sought-after bag in fashion has just been auctioned, achieving the status of the most expensive handbag ever sold for $10.1 million (Rs 86,72,76,622) at Sotheby’s.

Did that figure surprise you? Us as well. This bag achieved a record at yesterday’s auction. It is currently the second most valuable fashion item ever auctioned, only surpassed by the ruby-red slippers from The Wizard of Oz, which fetched $32.5 million in 2024. In Paris, on July 10, 2025, the auction room was stunned when bidding for the Hermes bag commenced at $1 million (Rs 8.6 crore).

What ensued was a heated 10-minute auction battle among nine collectors. Ultimately, the bag was purchased by a private collector from Japan, who placed bids over the phone with Maiko Ichikawa, Country Head of Sotheby’s Japan. Morgane Halimi, Global Head of Handbags and Fashion at Sotheby’s, referred to the event as “a significant milestone” in luxury fashion. “The sale of the Original Birkin ultimately honors the lasting charm and spirit of its inspiration, Jane Birkin.”

The initial bag differs from its later iterations. Its dimensions, metal accents, attached shoulder strap, and several other discreet characteristics were never duplicated in other items. From 1985 to 1994, Birkin utilized the bag every day, which features distinct personal elements, including her initials “J.B.,” a tiny set of silver nail clippers, and an assortment of stickers and embellishments that showcase her unique style and everyday experiences.

This iconic handbag originated in 1984, on a flight from Paris to London. Actress Jane Birkin, sitting beside Hermes CEO Jean-Louis Dumas, voiced annoyance at the lack of a stylish yet practical bag.

Over the years, the Birkin bag has transformed from a useful item to the height of luxury and exclusivity. Its iconic reputation was further cemented when it appeared in the television show Sex and the City, highlighted by the unforgettable quote, “It’s not a bag.” “It’s a Birkin,” is now ingrained in pop culture.

Every bag, handmade over 18 to 40 hours, is filled with complex details, featuring individual codes and artisan signatures.

A portion of its charm is attributed to its exclusivity; you cannot simply enter a Hermes store and purchase one. There is a complete procedure that includes establishing a connection with a salesperson and finding the perfect Birkin for you. Besides style, it has also been shown to be a solid investment. A report by Deloitte and Credit Suisse stated that Hermes Birkin bags yielded an average return of 38 percent in 2020. In reality, the resale worth of an immaculate Birkin has greatly exceeded that of gold.

Stars such as Victoria Beckham, Kim Kardashian, Nita Ambani, Janhvi Kapoor, Kareena Kapoor, and several others possess and frequently showcase their luxurious shades of the Birkin bag.