Louis Vuitton Papillon Bag: sizes, pouch, and prices
Posted on October 14 2026
The Papillon is Louis Vuitton's cylindrical bag: a canvas tube with a zip on top, held by two leather handles. Launched in 1966 and discontinued in its classic version in 2009, it can now only be found second-hand. Here are its sizes, its canvases, the history of its mini pouch, and what it costs in vintage, along with the Papillon bags that have passed through our shop.
Where does the Louis Vuitton Papillon bag come from?
The Papillon joined the Louis Vuitton range in 1966. Its cylindrical shape makes it one of the most recognizable bags in Monogram canvas.
The classic Monogram canvas model was discontinued in 2009. Since then, Louis Vuitton has regularly revisited its shape in other versions, but the vintage Papillon, with its two handles and full-length zip, can only be purchased second-hand.
What are the sizes of the Papillon?
The vintage Papillon mainly comes in three sizes, named after their length in centimeters: 19, 26, and 30. The 30 is the largest of the three.
| Model | Dimensions | For whom? |
|---|---|---|
| Papillon 19 | — | The smallest, for essentials |
| Papillon 26 | Approx. 25.5 cm long and 13.5 cm in diameter (measured on our Papillon 26) | A compact size, carried by hand |
| Papillon 30 | Approx. 30 cm long and 15 cm in diameter | The most spacious, for everyday use |
Monogram or Damier Ébène: which canvas to choose?
The Papillon is mainly found in Monogram canvas and Damier Ébène canvas. The difference is also visible in the leathers, as on our two Papillon 30s: patinated natural leather handles on the Monogram, dark brown leather trim on the Damier Ébène.
- The Monogram: the most classic Papillon, the one associated with the model. Check the condition of the handles; that is where wear shows first.
- The Damier Ébène: more discreet, without the LV logo visible at first glance.
The mini Papillon pouch: the original accessory
Depending on the era, the Papillon was sold with a matching cylindrical mini pouch, which echoed its shape in a smaller size. It could be tucked inside the bag, attached to the handles, or carried on its own.
Louis Vuitton has actually relaunched this accessory: the current Papillon Pouch in Monogram canvas is presented by the brand as a nod to the archival accessory that accompanied the original Papillon. It measures 20 × 8.5 × 8.5 cm and is sold for €1,200 on the Louis Vuitton website (October 2026).
In the second-hand market, a Papillon sold with its original pouch is more complete and highly sought after. If you are buying a Papillon, always ask if the pouch is included.
How much does a pre-owned Louis Vuitton Papillon cost?
A vintage Papillon usually sells for a few hundred euros, depending on its size, canvas, condition, and the presence of its pouch. At RARR Vintage, our latest Papillon 30 bags have sold for or are priced between €639 and €695.
| Model | Canvas | Price at RARR Vintage |
|---|---|---|
| Papillon 30 | Monogram | €639 (available October 2026) |
| Papillon 30 | Damier Ébène | €695 (sold) |
Factors that influence the price:
- Condition of the handles: cracks, water stains, worn stitching.
- Ends of the cylinder: leather edges are prone to rubbing.
- Interior: cleanliness of the lining and condition of the Louis Vuitton marking.
- Original pouch: a complete Papillon is worth more than the bag alone.
Each piece is described with a precise condition grade, so you know exactly what you are buying.
How to verify a vintage Papillon?
Start with the interior: the Louis Vuitton marking must be clear and consistent, and the date code must correspond to the bag's era. However, only a full inspection allows for a definitive conclusion.
On our Monogram Papillon 30, the interior features the marking “® LOUIS VUITTON PARIS made in France”.
To read the code and date the bag, follow our Louis Vuitton date code guide. At RARR Vintage, every bag is also authenticated with Entrupy. The Entrupy certificate is included for items €1,000 and over, and available as an option for €30 for items below that price.
Find a Papillon at RARR Vintage
No Papillon online while you are reading this article? Our sourcing service can find it for you, in the size and canvas of your choice.
FAQ: Louis Vuitton Papillon bag
Is the Louis Vuitton Papillon bag still manufactured?
No, not in its classic version. The Monogram canvas Papillon was discontinued in 2009. Louis Vuitton currently offers a Papillon Pouch inspired by the original accessory, but the vintage bag can only be bought second-hand.
Which Papillon size should I choose?
The Papillon 30 is the most spacious and practical for daily use. The 26 is more compact, and the 19 only holds the essentials.
How much is a pre-owned Louis Vuitton Papillon worth?
At RARR Vintage, our Papillon 30 bags have sold for or are priced between €639 and €695. The price mainly depends on the condition of the handles and whether the original pouch is present.
Was the Papillon sold with a pouch?
Depending on the era, yes: a matching cylindrical mini pouch, which could be used alone or attached to the handles. A Papillon sold with its original pouch is more sought after.