Cherished Number Plates. Some fascinating facts
In the world of motoring, few things blend personal flair and investment potential quite like cherished number plates also known as private car numbers. These unique registrations aren’t just about vanity—they’re steeped in history, culture, and surprising economics. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just curious, here are some intriguing facts that make cherished number plates so captivating.
Many Cherished Number Plates are worth surprisingly more than the car.
Some cherished number plates fetch eye-watering sums. The number plate “25 O” sold for £518,000, making it one of the most expensive ever. Why? It perfectly complements classic Ferraris like the 250 GTO. In many cases, the plate becomes the prized possession—more valuable than the vehicle it adorns.
The Cherished Number/Private Plate Market.
The Cherished Number Plate market started to get really popular back in the 1970’s with only a handful of ‘Number Plate Dealers’ including ourselves Motor Marks selling number plates from vehicles. The DVLA got involved much later in selling number plates which had never been issued to vehicles.
The DVLA has been auctioning cherished number plates since 1989
The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) began auctioning unissued personalised number plates back in 1989. Since then, it has raised over £2 billion for the Treasury. These auctions are now major events, attracting collectors, investors, and celebrities alike.
Shorter number plates are considered much more desirable.
The fewer characters, the higher the value. Plates like “F1” or “VIP 1” are considered ultra-premium due to their brevity and exclusivity. A single-letter, single-digit plate is the holy grail for many enthusiasts.
Number Plates can prove to be a Psychological Power Move.
Studies show that personalised number plates can influence perception. A plate like “CEO 1” or containing the phrase / word “B0SS” ie ending in 805S or starting BO55 can subtly signal status, success, or personality. It’s not just a personalised registration—it’s branding on wheels.
Cherished Number Plates are not just a British craze.
While the UK has a rich tradition of cherished number plates, countries like the UAE, Hong Kong, and the US also have booming markets. In Dubai, the plate “D5” sold for AED 33 million (approximately $9 million) in October 2016. The registration ‘7’ sold at a Dubai auction is the world’s most expensive number plate selling for £12MILLION, showing that the obsession is truly global.
Some number plates are banned.
The DVLA maintains a list of banned number plates. When the twice yearly new number plates are issued anything deemed offensive, politically sensitive, or inappropriate is blacklisted. So while creativity is encouraged, there are limits to what you can drive around with. The DVLA bans number plates that are offensive, in poor taste, explicit words, racial slurs, politically sensitive combinations, war references and subtle combinations that may hint at harmful messages.
Cherished Number Plates are a legitimate Investment.
Cherished number plates aren’t just flashy or pretentious—they’re appreciating assets. Like art, expensive wine or vintage watches, most cherished number plates often appreciate in value over time. Some investors treat them as part of a diversified portfolio. Some collectors buy purely for resale value, especially if the number plate has broad appeal.
Final Thoughts.
Cherished number plates are more than just a quirky indulgence. They’re a blend of identity, history, and financial strategy. Whether you’re flaunting your initials or investing in a rare gem, promoting your company or football team these number plates tell a story—and sometimes, they tell it in seven characters or less.
Looking to purchase a personalised number plate or need help in finding something suitable for you? We have an extensive searchable database offering millions of cherished car number plates as well as bargain number plates and we have something suitable for everyones budget.
Call us now on 0116 235 0116 and speak to one of our friendly Sales Staff who will be only to happy to help with your enquiry.