Constance

Hermès

Appreciating

Resale Retail

Resale value range: $8,000 to $25,000
Retail price range: $9,000 to $14,500

MaterialEpsom, Box calf or Swift leather

HardwarePalladium or gold-plated H clasp

Introduced1959

Categoryshoulder, crossbody

The Constance is a compact shoulder bag defined by its large metal H clasp on the front flap. It is worn on a flat chain-and-leather strap that can be doubled for a shorter drop. It is made in small sizes and is often chosen as an alternative to the Kelly by buyers who want an evening-friendly, more streamlined shape.

Sizes & Variants

Sizes

Constance 18

7.1" x 5.5" x 2.0"

The compact mini size, typically worn as an evening bag or crossbody.

$8,000 – $18,000

Constance 24

9.4" x 6.3" x 2.8"

The standard size, large enough for daily essentials.

$10,000 – $25,000

Resale Intelligence

Is the Constance Worth Buying?

Standard-leather Constance bags generally resell at or above boutique retail. A Constance 18 commonly clears roughly $8,000 to $18,000 and a Constance 24 roughly $10,000 to $25,000, with color, hardware and condition moving the number. Treat these figures as an estimate and compare recent sold listings before deciding.

Background

History of the Constance

The Constance was introduced in 1959 and is credited to Catherine Hermès, who named it after her daughter. It was designed as a smaller, more elegant shoulder bag at a time when the house was best known for structured bags like the Kelly.

Its H clasp was unusual for the period and has remained its defining feature.

Cultural Significance

The Constance has gained a wider audience in recent years and is often described as the collector's alternative to the Birkin and Kelly. Its clean lines and easy shoulder carry make it a favorite among buyers who want a less obvious status bag.

Common Questions

FAQ

How much is a Hermès Constance worth?

A Constance in a standard leather typically resells for roughly $8,000 to $25,000 depending on size, leather, hardware and condition. Exotic skins and special editions sell well above that.

What sizes does the Constance come in?

The two main sizes are the Constance 18 (mini) and the Constance 24. Both account for most of the resale market.

Does the Constance hold its value?

Resale is generally strong. Demand for the Constance has risen as buyers look for an alternative to the Birkin and Kelly, and standard-leather examples in classic colors commonly resell at or above retail.

How can I tell if a Constance is real?

The H clasp is the signature detail. Hardware, stamp and stitching quality are what authenticators check, so authentication by a specialist is strongly recommended.