How Much Is An Hermès Kelly Bag?

Annie Morgan
2026-01-16T11:42:06-05:00

Although the Birkin seems to be the benchmark when it comes to exclusivity in the handbag arena, the Kelly deserves its own limelight. Boasting many of the same signature hallmarks of a Birkin, how much does an Hermès Kelly cost?

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For many, owning a Birkin or a Kelly is a dream or a goal to work towards. If you are interested in owning a Kelly bag, you may be wondering about the cost. There is no definitive answer, as there are a lot of variables involved. However, this guide will break it down for you so that you can choose the right path for you.

A Brief History Of The Hermès Kelly

Released in the 1930s, the trapezoid-shaped structured bag from Hermès was originally called the Sac À Dépêches.

It was renamed after the Princess of Monaco and famous actress Grace Kelly wore it in both an Alfred Hitchcock movie and in her personal life, making her name synonymous with the bag.

Hermès Kelly Bag Price: How Much Do They Really Cost?

The Price Of A New Hermès Kelly Bag

The price of a new Hermès Kelly bag varies based on the size, leather, and hardware. These iconic bags are not available for direct purchase by the general public without a purchase history at an Hermès boutique, making the retail price more of a baseline than a true market cost.

Kelly Size | Estimated 2025 Retail Price (USD)
Mini Kelly 20 | $8,500 - $11,000
Kelly 25 | $9,500 - $12,500
Kelly 28 | $10,500 - $14,000
Kelly 32 | $11,500 - $15,500
Kelly 35 | $12,500 - $16,500
Kelly 40 | $14,000 - $18,000

Note: These prices are estimates and can fluctuate based on annual price increases, material (e.g., box calf, Togo, Epsom), and exotic skins (e.g., crocodile, ostrich), which can multiply the price.

Secondary Market Value (Resale)

Due to extreme scarcity at the boutique level, the vast majority of Kelly bags are purchased on the secondary (resale) market, where prices are often two to four times the retail price.

Kelly Size | Estimated 2025 Resale Price (USD) | Key Factors Influencing Resale Price
Mini Kelly 20 | $25,000 - $45,000+ | Highest demand; prices heavily depend on color and leather (e.g., Chèvre leather commands a premium).
Kelly 25 | $20,000 - $35,000 | The most popular modern size; demand for Sellier construction is often higher.
Kelly 28 | $18,000 - $30,000 | Excellent size for daily use; prices are slightly lower than the 25 due to less extreme demand.
Kelly 32/35 | $15,000 - $25,000 | Classic but less popular today; prices are relatively lower, especially for older or vintage bags.
Kelly 40 | $10 - $20,000 | As a larger, less in-demand size compared to the Mini or 25, it typically sells closer to or slightly above its original retail price, with prices varying greatly with condition.

Important Note On Secondary Market Pricing:

Resale prices can vary widely and depend on several factors:

Condition: New-in-box bags or those with plastic still on the hardware command the highest prices. It is also preferable if the bag still comes with its original shoulder strap.

Color: Neutral colors (Black, Gold, Etoupe, Gris Mouette) and specific limited-edition colors are the most sought-after.

Exotic Materials: Bags made from crocodile or alligator can sell for upwards of $70,000 to $150,000+.

Hardware: Gold hardware (GHW) and Palladium hardware (PHW) are the standards, but special hardware like brushed or matte finishes can affect the price.

Construction: The structured Sellier style often fetches higher prices than the more relaxed Retourné style.

Where Can I Buy An Hermès Kelly?

The two most viable options for first-time buyers are to either develop a purchase history at an Hermès boutique and to submit your wish for a Kelly, or alternatively buy one on the resale market.

How To Buy A Kelly Bag From An Hermès Boutique

Build a purchase history with Hermès by buying ready-to-wear, shoes, accessories, or home goods

Develop a relationship with a dedicated sales associate at your local boutique

Visit the boutique regularly and maintain consistent communication

Clearly express interest in a Kelly bag and your preferred size, leather, color, and hardware

Be flexible with specifications, as availability is limited and unpredictable

Wait for an offer, which can take months or longer depending on demand and location

Be prepared to purchase immediately when a Kelly is offered

Understand that there is no official waitlist, and availability is at the boutique’s discretion

Consider resale as an alternative if boutique access is limited or time-sensitive

How To Buy An Hermès Kelly At Resale

Do your research: check forums and reviews of different resale platforms

Make sure they have a high score on Trustpilot and positive reviews

Check if they have an authentication process in place

Review the returns policy

Get in contact with a sales consultant at the company if you have any questions or want to see the bag in person before purchasing

Make a purchase!

At myGemma, we have a team of experienced authenticators within the luxury space, and we guarantee authenticity or your money back. Check out our reviews to see why they love shopping at myGemma.

Shop Hermès Kelly Bags

How To Sell Hermès Bags Online?

If you’re in the market to sell rather than buy, myGemma has three options for you: sell directly, consign, or trade-in.

Choose to sell directly if you want fast money. From price quote to payment, it can take as little as 24 hours. Alternatively, if you’re happy to wait a little, then you can consign for up to 25% more return on your items. Lastly, trade in your items if you have your eye on something else. This way, you’ll receive 5-10% extra value in credit towards your next purchase.

myGemma offers a transparent shopping experience, with no hidden fees. The price you are offered is the amount you receive.

Sell, Consign, Or Trade-In