Vintage Pierre Cardin Leather Kiss-Lock Coin Pouch
Pouch / Coin Purse / Minaudière · Pierre Cardin, a mid-tier luxury brand with a reputation for space-age and geometric design during the 20th century.
Collection: Vintage Small Leather Goods (SLG) line, likely from the 'Ready-to-Wear' accessory collection.
Style
Pouch / Coin Purse / Minaudière
Brand
Pierre Cardin, a mid-tier luxury brand with a reputation for space-age and geometric design during the 20th century.
Material
Smooth pebbled calfskin leather with a tonal leather overlay flap. Machine-stitched construction with painted edge finishing.
Dimensions
Width: 9cm (3.5"), Height: 8cm (3.1"), Depth: 2cm (0.8"). Small pocket-sized accessory.
Description
A classic example of late-mid-century accessory design, this Pierre Cardin coin pouch features a sophisticated oxblood leather palette. The structured frame is softened by the curved lines of the body, and the signature 'PC' metal hardware adds a touch of retro-futuristic branding characteristic of Cardin's aesthetic.
Key Features
Signature double-ball kiss-lock clasp, tonal leather flap, and the square metallic logo emblem.
Material & Construction
Smooth pebbled calfskin leather with a tonal leather overlay flap. Machine-stitched construction with painted edge finishing.
Color & Pattern
Deep Burgundy/Oxblood with a darker mahogany tonal flap. Plain, untextured pattern highlighting the natural leather grain.
Hardware Details
Silver-tone metal frame with a signature double-ball kiss-lock (clasp) and a brushed metal 'P' or 'PC' logo plaque on the front flap.
Interior Description
Usually lined with synthetic acetate, nylon, or a thin leather skiver. Single open compartment for coins and folded bills.
Closure Type
Mechanical kiss-lock (tension-based ball clasp) combined with a decorative front tuck flap.
Strap & Handle Details
Strapless design intended for carry inside a larger handbag or in a pocket.
Craftsmanship Details
Standard machine stitching with decent alignment. The leather is of durable quality, typical for mass-market luxury licenses of the 1980s.
Authentication Indicators
Alignment of the logo plaque, consistent stitch tension, and the characteristic stiffness of 1980s era treated leathers.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely Made in France or Italy, though Pierre Cardin had extensive licensing deals globally during this era.
Era & Period
Late 1970s to 1980s. This period favored geometric hardware and utilitarian luxury accessories.
Age Estimate
Circa 1978-1985 based on the style of the logo plaque and the kiss-lock mechanism.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of luxury in the 70s and 80s when designer small goods became symbols of status reachable for the middle class.
Condition Notes
Good vintage condition. Visible surface scuffing on the bottom right, slight tarnishing on the silver-tone frame, and minor color fading on the edges.
Value Estimate
$40 - $85 USD on the secondary market depending on interior cleanliness and hardware shine.
Care & Maintenance
Condition with a neutral leather cream; avoid moisture on the metal frame to prevent rust; store in a dry place with acid-free tissue.
Similar Handbags
Vintage Gucci Kiss-Lock pouches (distinguished by GG monogram) or Dior honeycomb coin purses.
Interesting Facts
Pierre Cardin was the first couturier to turn to Japan as a high fashion market and was a pioneer in branding and licensing his name across thousands of products.