Louis Vuitton Without a Serial Number? 2025 Guide to IC Chip Identification
Hello and welcome,
“There’s no serial number on my Louis Vuitton bag—could it be fake?”
If you’ve ever had this thought, you’re not alone. This article clearly explains the latest changes in Louis Vuitton serial numbers and embedded IC chips so you can shop with confidence.
■ What is a serial number and where is it found?
For many years, Louis Vuitton products included a “serial number” that indicated the manufacturing date and country. These numbers were either printed on a tag or stamped into a seam or pocket lining.
■ How to read the serial number (by year)
| Period | Example | Interpretation |
|---|---|---|
| Early 1980s | 833 | March 1983 (no factory code) |
| Late 1980s | AR894 | AR = France, April 1989 |
| 1990–2006 | BA1919 | BA = USA, Nov 1999 (1st & 3rd digits = month / 2nd & 4th = year) |
| 2007–2021 | VI0098 | VI = France, 9th week of 2008 (1st & 3rd = week / 2nd & 4th = year) |
| 2021 onward | None | Switched to internal IC chip |
■ What is the IC chip? Is it real or fake?
From spring 2021, Louis Vuitton began embedding IC chips (NFC tags) into their products instead of printing serial numbers.
Not visible to the eye
Embedded near tags or within seams
Not readable by regular smartphones (store-only devices required)
Currently, these chips are found primarily in bags and wallets. Accessories and clothing are not confirmed to contain IC chips yet.
■ No serial number ≠ Fake!
Newer items without serial numbers are not necessarily fake—they follow updated specifications.
Today, “no stamp” may indicate authenticity rather than a red flag.
In fact, the absence of a serial number could suggest a newer, authentic model.
■ Factory code list (for stamped items)
Note: IC chip models may not include visible factory codes.
| Country | Factory Codes |
|---|---|
| France | AR, FL, SP, VI, MB, CT |
| USA | SD, TX, OS |
| Spain | CA, LO, LB |
| Italy | BO, FO, MA |
■ Summary: Louis Vuitton is evolving
Since 2021, IC chips are now standard
No serial number doesn’t mean fake
Authentication requires expert knowledge
We verify all our products—including those with IC chips—as 100% authentic.
Shop with peace of mind.
If you have any questions, feel free to contact us anytime.
Tags: Louis Vuitton IC chip, serial number guide, how to spot fake, LV date code, authentication