BIRKINS AWAY: A Hermès handbag has set a world record for the highest price for a handbag sold at public auction, fetching $203,150 at a sale in Dallas, Texas. The bag, officially named Hermès Exceptional Collection Shiny Rouge H Porosus Crocodile 30 cm Birkin Bag with Solid 18K White Gold & Diamond Hardware, sold on Dec. 6 to a collector who wished to remain anonymous, according to Heritage Auctions.
“This is an extraordinary example of one of the world’s most exceptional handbags, and this was certainly an exceptional price, exceeding our highest expectations at every corner,” said Matt Rubinger, director of luxury accessories at Heritage Auctions.
Three other Hermès handbags set new records in the sale. An Hermès 35 cm Matte Brighton Blue Porosus Crocodile Birkin Bag with Palladium Hardware sold for $113,525; an Hermès 35 cm Shiny Braise Red Porosus Crocodile Birkin Bag with Palladium Hardware went for $95,600; and an Hermès Ultra Rare 30 cm Himalayan Crocodile Birkin Bag with palladium Hardware fetched $80,663.