A world of Chanel handbags exists beyond the Classic Flaps, 22s, 25s, and 31s – these bags are designed for our lives. But the true genius of Chanel lies in transforming everyday items into the extraordinary. From Minaudières that mimic N°5 perfume bottles to whimsical designs inspired by poker chips and grocery shopping baskets, Karl Lagerfeld’s genius turned the most unexpected everyday objects into luxury masterpieces. With each piece, Chanel fuses high fashion with playful creativity, making these bags not just items to carry, but pieces to marvel at.
Due to their limited production and unique designs, many of these bags are incredibly difficult to source, often found only through the secondary market. But Chanel lovers are in luck! Heritage Auctions is offering a rare opportunity to own a slice of Chanel fashion history. Bidding opens April 14, 2025, and closes May 8, 2025. Don’t miss out on owning one of these iconic creations!
We’ve curated a collector’s guide to the most iconic, whimsical, and rare Chanel Minaudières – from the runway, to the auction block.
5x5=CC Minaudière (Spring 2015)
When math meets fashion, magic happens. From Chanel’s Spring 2015 collection, this hot pink lucite clutch is more than just a playful equation — it’s a tribute to Coco Chanel’s iconic No. 5 perfume, where, of course, 5×5 equals Chanel. On the other side, the inscription “Je ne suis pas en solde” (“I’m not on sale”), adds a touch of Lagerfeld’s signature wit.
Image courtesy: Vogue Runway
Where Western meets high fashion, this Chanel Paris-Dallas Minaudière captures the bold spirit of the American frontier with Chanel’s signature style. Designed to resemble an oversized belt buckle, it combines black leather and pony hair with luxurious gold hardware, creating the ultimate Paris-Dallas aesthetic.
Image courtesy: Heritage Auctions
Birdcage Minaudière (Pre-Fall 2020)
This iconic Minaudière takes flight with a little Chanel magic — a pair of golden birds perched on the door of its crystal-encrusted cage, flanked by intricate enamel details. A standout from the Pre-Fall 2020 Métiers d’Art collection, it reflects the Maison’s dedication to craftsmanship, with each piece reflecting the meticulous artistry and fine techniques passed down through generations of skilled artisans.
Image courtesy: Vogue Runway
Bobbin Minaudière (Fall 2016)
Woven into the very fabric of Chanel’s Fall 2016 collection, this Chanel Black Lucite & Gold Bobbin Minaudière takes the form of a bobbin, blending craft with couture. Crafted in black lucite and accented with gold hardware, it threads together the world of industrial chic with timeless sophistication. A nod to Chanel’s innovative spirit, this bag spools the unexpected into a statement accessory.
Image courtesy: @tatlersingapore
Boy Brick Lego Minaudière (Resort 2017)
Inspired by a childhood classic, this Spring 2014 Minaudière reimagines the Lego brick through Chanel’s lens. Crafted from sleek black lucite and adorned with faux pearls, it combines playful charm with luxurious sophistication — a true statement piece for the modern collector.
Image courtesy: Vogue Runway
Buonasera Film Projector Minaudière (Pre-Fall 2016)
Lights, Camera, Couture. A nod to vintage Italian cinema, Chanel’s Pre-Fall 2016 Métiers d’Art collection brought the glamour of old Hollywood to life. The Buonasera Film Projector Minaudière, crafted in sleek black lucite with mirror and strass crystal detailing, channels the magic of the silver screen.
Image courtesy: Vogue Runway
Cassette Tape Minaudière (Spring 2004)
Channeling the nostalgia of vintage music, the Chanel Cassette Tape Minaudière from the Spring 2004 collection transforms a classic item into a high-fashion accessory. Crafted from clear lucite with silver hardware, this Minaudière is a playful yet sophisticated take on a cassette tape.
Cuban Cigar Box Minaudière (Resort 2017)
Inspired by the vibrant spirit of Havana and its iconic cigar culture, Chanel Havana by Night Paris-Habana Wood Cuban Cigar Box Minaudière from the Paris-Havana 2017 Cruise Collection resembles a classic cigar box. Crafted from wood with gold-tone hardware, a profile portrait of Gabrielle Chanel takes center stage.
Image courtesy: Chanel
Egg Carton Minaudière (Fall 2014)
Straight from Chanel’s unforgettable Fall 2014 “Supermarket Collection” — where the Grand Palais was transformed into a luxe grocery store — this Minaudière turns the humble egg carton into a collector’s dream. Crafted in sleek black lucite with silver hardware and topped with a black crystal CC, it opens to reveal six compartments made to cradle jewelry, not eggs. Because who said an egg carton couldn’t be très chic?
Image courtesy: Vogue Runway
Gas Can Minaudière (Resort 2020)
Fuel your fashion with this statement Minaudière from the Resort 2020 Paris-Dubai Métiers d’Art collection. Shaped like a gas can in clear lucite and accented with light gold hardware. A mix of practicality and luxury, this accessory revs up any look.
Gold Bar Minaudière (Spring 2006)
Go for gold with Chanel’s ultra-rare Bullion Bar Minaudière from the Spring 2006 Ready-to-Wear collection, Coco Meets James Dean. Crafted in hammered gold metal and shaped like a gleaming gold bar, it’s a bold symbol of luxury that doesn’t play by the rules.
Image courtesy: Vogue Runway
Gondola Minaudière (Fall 2019)
Part of the cozy après-ski spirit of the Fall 2019 Ready-To-Wear collection, Karl Lagerfeld’s last, this Minaudière channels winter chic with its ski lift gondola design. Crafted in white lucite with strass crystal embellishments and silver hardware, it captures the essence of mountain escapes, complete with a CC frosted window.
Guitar Minaudière (Pre-Fall 2024)
Channeling the electric energy of Manchester, the Pre-Fall 2024 Métiers d’Art Collection pays tribute to the city’s vibrant pop culture and iconic music scene. The Guitar Minaudière is a striking blend of rock ‘n’ roll energy and Chanel’s craftsmanship, crafted in white and black resin with silver hardware. Adorned with multicolor strass and enamel detailing, this Minaudière channels the creative pulse of the era.
Image courtesy: Chanel
Havana Boy Brick Minaudière (Cruise 2017)
Expanding on the vibrant energy of the Paris-Havana lineup, this Minaudière from Chanel’s Cruise 2017 collection is crafted in red and white lucite and adorned with faux pearl detailing, nodding to a vintage cigar box. It captures both old-world charm and modern luxury in a single, iconic piece.
Image courtesy: Chanel
Helmet Minaudière (Resort 2023)
An edgy and avant-garde design, this Resort 2023 Minaudière mimics a sleek motorcycle helmet, transforming it into a one-of-a-kind fashion piece. Crafted with black and white lucite and silver hardware, it fuses Chanel’s iconic camellia with a dash of F1 spirit — and of course, it’s made for driver No. 5.
Image courtesy: Chanel
Lait de Coco Milk Carton Minaudière (Fall 2014)
Another icon from Chanel’s iconic Fall 2014 “Supermarket Collection,” the Lait de Coco Minaudière serves up playful luxury without spilling a drop. Crafted in iridescent silver goatskin leather with ruthenium hardware, its milk carton silhouette is adorned with crystal and faux pearl lettering. Offering a cheeky commentary on modern life, Chanel proves that even the most ordinary objects can hold extraordinary value.
Image courtesy: Vogue Runway
Life Preserver Minaudière (Pre-Fall 2018)
Anchored in the spirit of Hamburg, Karl Lagerfeld’s hometown, this Life Preserver Minaudière expands on the nautical-inspired designs of the 2018 Paris-Hamburg Métiers d’Art collection. Crafted in black lucite with aged gold hardware and embellished with strass crystals, it captures the essence of maritime charm with its dazzling design.
Image courtesy: Vogue Runway
Lion Head Minaudière (Pre-Fall 2020)
A symbol of strength, the lion has long been linked to Chanel, inspired by Gabrielle Chanel’s own zodiac sign. Featured in the Pre-Fall 2020 Métiers d’Art collection, this Lion Minaudière is crafted from black quilted lambskin leather and adorned with a striking gold and strass lion head, complete with a faux pearl and gold bead mane.
Matryoshka Minaudière (Pre-Fall 2010)
A rare and coveted piece from Chanel’s Pre-Fall 2010 Paris-Shanghai collection, this Matryoshka Minaudière reimagines the traditional Russian nesting doll. Crafted from black lucite and brushed gold hardware, it’s adorned with strass crystals, silk cord, and enamel embellishments. While it does not include a range of nesting dolls inside, this bag stands alone as a playful tribute to cultural storytelling through couture.
Image courtesy: Vogue Runway
Microchip Minaudière (Spring 2017)
Mining the data center theme of Chanel’s Spring 2017 collection, this Microchip Minaudière merges technology with high fashion in an elegant form. Crafted in black lucite and adorned with strass crystals and faux pearls, it features silver hardware and a tucked-away chain strap. The CC pushlock closure and metallic silver leather interior complete this futuristic piece, making it a standout for those who appreciate the intersection of cutting-edge design and timeless sophistication.
Mini Van Minaudière (Cruise 2024)
A glittering homage to the Venice Beach Boardwalk and 1960s California, the Chanel Mini Van Minaudière captures the carefree spirit of the era. Featured in the Cruise 2024 Runway Show in Los Angeles, this dazzling piece is crafted in silver glitter lucite, with multicolor crystal and enamel detailing that recalls the bright colors of vintage vans. Complete with functional wheels and light gold hardware, this playful Minaudière is primed for coastal adventures.
Image courtesy: Chanel
N°5 Minaudière (Fall 2015)
A fresh take on the iconic No. 5 perfume bottle design, this No. 5 Minaudière from the Fall 2015 collection reimagines Chanel’s signature fragrance through the lens of a chic French brasserie. The bold black and gold striped lucite mirrors the elegant atmosphere of Parisian dining rooms, while the gold hardware and strass crystal detailing add a dash of glamour.
Image courtesy: Vogue Runway
N°5 Perfume Bottle Minaudière (Pre-Fall 2017)
When it comes to icons, Chanel’s N°5 perfume reigns supreme, and this Perfume Minaudière brings that legendary fragrance into the world of fashion. Reinterpreted as a sleek black plexiglass clutch, with gold glitter stripes, it channels the timeless allure of the N°5 bottle with its gold hardware, faux pearl details, and tuckable chain strap. It’s the ultimate accessory for carrying your N°5 purse spray in style.
Playing Card Minaudière (Pre-Collection Spring 2016)
High stakes, haute style. Introduced as part of Chanel’s Pre-Collection for Spring 2016, this Card Minaudière plays on the house’s casino motif with a whimsical twist. Crafted from sleek black lucite with champagne gold hardware, it features faux pearl accents and a portrait of Coco Chanel herself, reimagined as the queen of hearts. Equal parts collectible and couture, it’s a winning hand for any Chanel connoisseur.
Image courtesy: Heritage Auctions
Poker Chip Minaudière (Resort 2023)
Play your cards right with this statement Minaudière from Chanel’s Resort 2023 collection, inspired by the glamour of Monte-Carlo’s legendary casino culture. Shaped like an oversized poker chip, it’s crafted in quilted red lambskin leather and finished with red and white enamel detailing, echoing the high-stakes energy of the Riviera. With champagne gold hardware and just the right amount of cheeky sophistication, it’s a bold bet on Chanel’s playful side.
Image courtesy: Vogue Runway
Ritz Key Card Minaudière (Pre-Fall 2017)
A refined tribute to Gabrielle Chanel’s time at the iconic Ritz Paris, this Suite Coco Chanel Ritz Key Card Minaudière from the Pre-Fall 2017 Métiers d’Art collection offers a playful nod to the accommodation. Crafted in ivory lambskin leather with light gold hardware, Minaudière secures with a decorative key. While it won’t grant you actual access to room 202, it certainly brings a touch of Parisian elegance to your ensemble.
Image courtesy: Heritage Auctions
Robot Minaudière (Spring 2017)
Step into the future with this bold robot Minaudière from Chanel’s Spring 2017 collection, where technology meets high fashion. Merging a high-tech data center theme with futuristic flair, this robot Minaudière is crafted in sleek black lucite with strass crystal embellishments and silver hardware — a true statement piece for those who embrace the future of fashion.
Image courtesy: Vogue Runway
Rocket Ship Minaudière (Fall 2017)
Blast off into the cosmos with this stellar Rocket Ship Minaudière from Chanel’s Fall 2017 Collection, which took fashion to new heights with a space-themed runway show. Crafted in black lucite with silver hardware, this mini rocket ship Minaudière is adorned with strass crystal detailing, adding a cosmic sparkle to its already futuristic design.
Image courtesy: Vogue Runway
Scarab Beetle Minaudière (Pre-Fall 2019)
Unveiled beneath the ancient arches of the Temple of Dendur, Chanel’s Pre-Fall 2019 Métiers d’Art collection drew from the mystique of Ancient Egypt. One of its most captivating creations, the Scarab Minaudière, is a tribute to the sacred beetle – an enduring symbol of protection and rebirth. Crafted in red Gripoix, blue and black enamel, and strass crystals with gold hardware, this rare piece merges Egyptian iconography with Chanel’s signature craftsmanship.
Shipping Container Minaudière (Pre-Fall 2018)
Set sail with this striking minaudière from the 2018 Paris-Hamburg Métiers d’Art Collection, a nod to Karl Lagerfeld’s hometown of Hamburg, Germany, and its iconic maritime legacy. Crafted in White Lucite with silver hardware, the Shipping Container minaudière features black enamel accents, a red leather woven chain shoulder strap that tucks away, and a latch closure — a chic take on an industrial object.
Slot Machine Minaudière (Resort 2023)
Roll the dice and hit the jackpot with this playful Slot Machine Minaudière from Chanel’s Resort 2023 collection. Inspired by the glitz and glamour of Monte Carlo, this bag is crafted in black lucite with vibrant multicolor strass crystals and enamel embellishments. Finished with gold hardware and a tucked-away chain shoulder strap, it’s a dazzling tribute to the high-stakes luxury of the French Riviera.
Image courtesy: Chanel
Traffic Light Minaudière (Resort 2020)
All aboard the CC express! All aboard the Chanel Express! For the Chanel Cruise 2020 collection, the Grand Palais was transformed into a train platform, and this Stoplight Minaudière was the perfect accessory for the journey. Crafted in Black Lucite with Strass crystal embellishments and silver hardware, it’s a nod to the chicest commute.
Image courtesy: Chanel
Trolley Minaudière (Spring 2015)
Travel in style with this mini carry-on Minaudière from the Spring 2015 collection! Shaped like a miniature trolley bag, it’s the ultimate nod to luxury travel. With silver hardware, quilted leather, and just the right amount of Chanel charm, it’s the perfect carry-on companion. Pair it with the full-size Chanel carry-on for ultimate airport luxe vibes.
Styling & Inspiration
While these rare Chanel creations certainly speak for themselves, we couldn’t resist pulling together a little visual inspiration from the handbag community. From casual jeans-and-a-tee moments to full red carpet glam, these Chanel Minaudières prove they’re always the focal point — no matter the setting.
Image courtesy: @baubles_bybb
Image courtesy: @mimialeblanc
Image courtesy: @eumliah
Image courtesy: @swedishandstylish
Image courtesy: @ccurator
Image courtesy: @asafetypin
Image courtesy: @lilmissluxe
Image courtesy: @happybaggage
Image courtesy: @katyackermann
Image courtesy: @baubles_bybb
Image courtesy: @asafetypin
Image courtesy: @asafetypin
How to Bid on the Auction
Great news! You do NOT have to be physically at the auction to bid. You can make your selections from the convenience of your own home – in your PJ’s from bed if you want. But, don’t wait until the last minute to get started. Below are the steps for getting into the action.
First, create an account at Heritage Auctions here.
It’s a two-minute, super easy registration process that allows you to login with your Google, YahooMail, Facebook, Apple ID, or PayPal account. The latter is the quickest option.
Second, click on this auction page for access to all of the handbags.
Next, select the item that you want, enter in your bid, and click the button “Place Bid”.
Then, you will be taken to a page titled “Please Confirm Your Bid”. This page will show you the name of the item you’re bidding on, the current bid, and the maximum bid. When you are satisfied with your bid, click on the button marked “Confirm Bid”.
If your bid is the current high bid, you will be notified and given some information on what might happen with your bid over the remainder of the auction. You will also receive a Bid Confirmation notice via email. If your bid is not the current high bid, you will be taken to a page that will notify you of that fact and allow you to place another bid.
For additional information, please visit Heritage Auctions Bidding Tutorial.
Now, suppose you don’t see what you’re quite looking for in this auction. No need to stop looking. In fact, don’t. Heritage Auctions has its very own handbag boutique brimming with beautiful and exclusive purses all year long. Visit here for the hottest selections.
If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out – we’ll do our best to help or get you connected to the right team member at Heritage Auctions. Happy bidding!
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Love, PurseBop
XO
Updated: April 14th, 2025
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