Replicas of some of Victoria’s rarest license plates are anticipated to ignite a competitive bidding war on Tuesday, potentially fetching hundreds of thousands of dollars. The auction will feature sixteen heritage plates, meticulously crafted to replicate the style of 1930s registration plates.
These handcrafted enamel plates are distinctively designed with numerals only, accompanied by a vertical “VIC” insert on the left side. The limited issuance of only 285,000 number combinations, prior to Victoria’s switch to alphanumeric plates in 1939, adds to their rarity and allure.
The Allure of Historic Plates
The upcoming auction includes plates with numbers such as 488, 899, and 1013, among others. Historically, numbers closer to 1 have commanded higher prices, with plate “20” selling for a staggering $2.54 million in June last year. This trend underscores the growing interest in heritage plates, fueled by the increasing popularity of custom plates in Victoria.
Interest in the heritage plates will be high, as the popularity of custom plates in Victoria is increasing each year.
A diverse group of bidders, including motoring enthusiasts, collectors, and business owners, are expected to vie for these coveted numbers. According to Giles Thompson, VicRoads registration and licensing services chief executive, combinations featuring lucky sequences or elegant symmetry are particularly sought after.
Understanding the Value
Heritage plates are more than mere registration numbers; they represent style, authenticity, and craftsmanship. “They’re a statement,” said Mr. Thompson, emphasizing that some plates are valued higher than the luxury cars they adorn.
Ramy Attia, auctioneer and founder of Heritage Only, has facilitated sales exceeding $17.5 million in license plates over the past five years. He notes that these plates are unique pieces of motoring history, often appreciating in value over time.
“Most cars depreciate over time, depending on what vehicle it is, while these plates have a track record of being appreciating assets,” Mr. Attia said.
For instance, a three-digit plate that traded for $5,000 in 1984 could now sell for $500,000. A recent sale of Victoria plate “184” fetched $510,000, highlighting the enduring appeal and value of these historic plates.
The Auction Spectacle
David Ginnane, VicRoads chief commercial officer, anticipates a thrilling auction event, describing it as a highlight of the year. The atmosphere is further enhanced by the display of high-end sports cars, such as Aston Martins and Lamborghinis, often bearing plates worth more than the vehicles themselves.
“[They’re] very rare, very iconic and steeped in Victoria’s motoring history,” Mr. Ginnane remarked.
Among the plates up for auction, “488” is expected to be particularly lucrative, especially for collectors looking to match it with a Ferrari 488 model. Mr. Attia emphasizes the exclusivity of these plates, noting that once a number is sold, it cannot be replicated.
Looking Ahead
All 500 tickets for the live auction at the Park Hyatt Grand Ballroom have been sold, but registered bidders can still participate online. This event not only highlights the cultural and historical significance of Victoria’s license plates but also underscores their status as valuable collector’s items.
As the auction unfolds, it will be interesting to see how these heritage plates continue to capture the imagination of collectors and enthusiasts, further cementing their place in Victoria’s rich motoring history.
