The Original Birkin Handbag Officially Recognized as the Most Expensive Sold at Auction

The Original Birkin Bag: A Historic Milestone

In a remarkable feat for luxury fashion, Valuence Japan has announced that the Original Birkin handbag has officially been recognized by Guinness World Records as the most expensive handbag ever sold at auction. This historic event unfolded during a Sotheby’s auction in Paris, where the iconic purse was sold for an astonishing €8,582,500, approximately ¥1.47 billion.

The event has sparked excitement amongst fashion enthusiasts and collectors around the world. To commemorate this significant achievement, an official certificate presentation took place on August 20, 2026, at ALLU SHINSAIBASHI ANNEX in Osaka, Japan. Shinsuke Sakamoto, CEO of Valuence Holdings and representative of the Valuence Group, attended the ceremony and received the prestigious recognition from Austin Johnson, the Guinness World Records official adjudicator.

The Original Birkin: A Glimpse into History

The Original Birkin, conceptualized in the 1980s, was a special creation by Hermès for actress and singer Jane Birkin. This prototype laid the foundation for the contemporary Hermès Birkin bag, which has since become a status symbol among luxury handbags. The bag sold at auction carries unique characteristics that narrate its personal history, showing signs of wear that reflect its extensive use and authenticity, with its owner’s initials engraved on it.

At the award ceremony, Sakamoto expressed his gratitude and commented on the meaning of preserving the value that the Original Birkin represents. He emphasized that the significance of this bag transcends its monetary worth, encompassing the rich history, culture, and personal connections tied to it that we aim to preserve for future generations. He expressed a commitment to share the story and value of this exceptional piece, ensuring that it continues to inspire and resonate with future audiences.