Historic Custom number plates

• Registered in SA
• Format is LNN
• 3 Characters long
• Silver on Black background
• Listed in Quick Sale

Description

In 1905, the Adelaide City Council took the pioneering step of issuing the first number plates in South Australia. These plates predate the state government's legislation in 1906, rendering them among the earliest issued plates in the state.

With the establishment of the state government's number plate system, a clash emerged with the existing local government system, resulting in considerable confusion. To resolve this, it was mandated that the existing plates carry an "A" prefix, thereby distinguishing the two systems. The two system ran concurrently until 1913.

In 1909, A18 was first registered to Mr. F R Moore of Semaphore for his 18hp Argyll automobile, as evident in accompanying image.

The A18, is in a custom plate format and is now issued by the current state government and is transferable. Such a plate, with its rare combination of photographic evidence and documented provenance, represents a unique investment opportunity. As one of the earliest issued plates on South Australian roads, its value is poised to appreciate.

Only a limited number of A prefix plates were issued between 1906 and 1913 but today less than 10 exist with known photographic provenance.


The primary image is of the 'Register' staff and friends on their annual picnic held on 19 March 1910 at Long Gully Pavilion, National Park.
The full image is viewable here.
State library photo active link for reference.

https://collections.slsa.sa.gov.au/resource/PRG+280/1/11/533