HermèsBirkin 40

Before you buy a used Birkin 40

• Prefer the Authenticity Guarantee. An independent authenticator checks the bag before it's sent to you. Look for the tag on the listings above, or tick "Authenticity Guarantee" in the filters.
• Check it's really the Birkin. Check the blind stamp, which shows the year the bag was made, and ask for photos of the stitching and the hardware. On a bag at this price, always use the Authenticity Guarantee.
• Be wary of a price far below typical. Fakes are often priced well under the going rate to look like a bargain. We flag anything 40%+ under similar listings and never count it as a deal.
• Look at the corners, handles and lining. Worn corners, a sticky lining or cracked handles can mean a costly repair, whatever the listing says. Ask for photos if they aren't shown.
• Check what comes with it. A dust bag, box, card or receipt helps when you come to sell it. Papers that don't match the bag add nothing.
• Pay through eBay. eBay's Money Back Guarantee only covers you if you pay through eBay, so never pay by bank transfer outside it. Our fake bag checklist has more.