When it comes to handbag investment, count on the Birkin to increase in value. Hard to purchase, exquisitely crafted, and coveted by the well-heeled, it can command stratospheric prices at auctions. Last year, a buyer forked out US$379,261 for a matte white Himalaya Niloticus crocodile Birkin 30 at a Christie’s auction in Hong Kong, making it the most expensive handbag sold at such events. The price of a new Birkin ranges from US$10,000 to US$150,000.