Unraveling the Mystery of CA, RN, and WPL Numbers

Everyone Loves A Mystery

If you’re a vintage clothing enthusiast like we are at Get Lucky Vintage, you’ve probably come across CA, RN, and WPL numbers on labels. For someone who values authenticity in vintage items, understanding these identifiers can be particularly useful. The RN (Registered Identification Number) and the older WPL (Wool Products Labeling) numbers help trace the origins of textile products, which is essential for verifying the authenticity and quality of vintage clothing.

We’ve included links to the CA and TextileRN databases, as well as an RN date calculator for you to use. But please read through everything first for critical information. You’ll learn the history behind the numbers, what they mean, what information they can reveal, and how they can help you estimate a general date for your fab finds. Let’s dive into the world of these intriguing codes!

Why Do These Numbers Exist?

In 1959, the Textile Fiber Products Identification Act and the Wool Products Labeling Act were established to protect consumers from deceptive advertising. These laws require that all textile products sold in the United States include clear information about their manufacturing details and origin, ensuring transparency and traceability. These numbers help identify the manufacturer or distributor of the clothing, ensuring that consumers can trust the authenticity and quality of the products they purchase.

What Are CA Numbers?

In Canada, the textile registration number is called a CA number. You can research CA numbers on the Canadian government’s website using their CA Identification Number Search.

What Are WPL Numbers?

The WPL (Wool Products Labeling) number system was used in the United States between 1939 and 1999 to track wool products. 

What Are RN Numbers?

The RN (Registered Identification Number) system was used as early as the 1940s. From 1952 through 1959, the numbers issued appear to range from 00101 to 04086. If your garment’s RN falls within that range, it was registered in that era.

After 1959, issuances went in spurts, making it more difficult to nail down a date. The first step in unraveling the mystery of RNs higher than 04086 is to do a quick search of the FTC’s database. (You will also find a WPL option in the search as well.)

It is important to note that some of the information in the directory may be outdated because it reflects the information provided to the Commission when the original RN application was submitted.

Math to the Rescue

There is a formula used by seasoned ragpickers to decipher RNs over 04086 and issued after 1959. By rounding the overall quantity of RN issuances over the decades, we can estimate the date.

The Secret Formula

Here is the formula used to round out the general era of RNs issued after 1959. We’ve included a timesaving calculator for you as well.

1. Step One: Subtract the first RN in the 1959 series, 13670, from your RN.
   • Formula: RN# - 13670 = X
2. Step Two: Divide the result of step one by 2635 (the average number of RN numbers issued annually).
   • Formula: X ÷ 2635 = Y
3. Step Three: Add the result of step two to 1959 to get the estimated year of issue.
   • Formula: Y + 1959 = estimated year of number issuance

It is important to note that the estimated year of issue is not the exact date the garment was made. Instead, it represents the earliest possible date the garment could have been produced. This is because companies can retain the same RN number for as long as they are in business.

Ready to find your next vintage treasure?