Decoding the Rare Levi's 501 Care Label (1984-1985)
The Levi's care labels from 1984 to 1985 are some of the most difficult to find, as they were only used for two years. While I currently only have an example from 1984, the details of both years are similar. Here's what makes this particular label so unique.
Analyzing the Front of the Label
The front side of this care label contains key information about the jeans.
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Lot Number: The first detail you'll notice is "Lot. 501," confirming that it's a pair of Levi's 501 jeans.
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Factory Code: Below the lot number, you'll find a three-digit code, such as 532. This is the production code for the manufacturing location in the United States. This number must match the number stamped on the back of the top button of your jeans.
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Waist and Length: The tag also lists the waist and length sizes, for example, "W27 L34." These numbers should correspond to the sizes on the back patch of the jeans.
Analyzing the Back of the Label: Dating Your Jeans
The reverse side of the label is where you can find the production year.
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Production Year: On this side, a single number (often circled) indicates the year of manufacture. A "4" means the jeans were made in 1984, while a "5" indicates 1985.
Key Features to Note:
Beyond the numbers, two details are crucial for identifying this specific label:
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Material: Unlike the previous tags (1973-1983) which had a coarse, fibrous texture, these 1984-1985 labels are made from a thinner, smoother, and more conventional paper. Over time, they tend to turn a brownish color, as seen in many vintage photos.
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Font Style: The letters and numbers are printed in a distinctive font with a dot-matrix or "digital" appearance. This is another key characteristic that sets them apart from other eras.
In conclusion, the 1984-1985 care label is a rare find, but by paying attention to its unique material and font style, you can accurately identify and date your vintage Levi's.
