How can I tell if a Coach bag is authentic?

Check the serial number creed patch first—authentic bags from the 1990s through early 2010s have a leather patch inside with a format like “No. XXXX-XXXX.” If it’s missing, on a fabric tag, or lacks the hyphen, it’s likely fake. Also look for straight, tight stitching, solid brass or nickel hardware with clean engraving, and a seller with a strong reputation and many sales. Most fakes are obvious once you check the creed patch.