25 O
The most expensive number plate in the UK ever sold at auction is 25 O, a prestigious piece acquired by classic car dealer John Collins in November 2014. Initially expecting to pay around £200,000, Collins found himself bidding against others, with the hammer eventually falling at a staggering £400,000 plus fees, totalling £518,480. In retrospect, he mentioned his willingness to go up to £1 million due to his strong desire for the coveted plate.
This exclusive number plate found its home on Collins' Ferrari 250 GTO, once owned by Eric Clapton. Describing it as one of the finest right-hand drive, short wheelbase cars ever built, Collins declared, "You can't get a better number plate. I wanted 25 O, I got it and I won't sell it."
Here's a glimpse of the Top 10 most expensive number plates in the UK:
- 25 O - £518,480 (Sold Nov 2014)
- X 1 - £502,676 (Sold Nov 2012)
- G 1 - £500,126 (Sold Sep 2011)
- RR 1 - £472,000 (Sold Sep 2018)
- F 1 - £440,625 (Sold Jan 2008)
- SH 1 - £415,143 (Sold Apr 2019)
- S 1 - £404,063 (Sold Sep 2008)
- RH 1 - £390,176 (Sold Mar 2021)
- 1 D - £352,411 (Sold Mar 2009)
- 1 S - £340,240 (Sold Mar 2010)
While these figures may seem substantial, they don't hold a candle to the Top 25 world's most expensive number plates.
The question arises: Are number plates a good investment? The answer is a resounding yes. Over the years, number plates have evolved into a serious investment opportunity. Initially acquired for recreational purposes, private plate purchases are now considered investments, especially as dateless registrations become rarer over time.
The desirability of a number plate to people is a major factor in its valuation, along with how rare the number is. Although every number plate is 'rare' (there is only one of each!), some are rarer and more desirable than others.
Back in the early days of car registrations, number plates featured a number from 1 through to 9999, followed by either one or two letters, very different from newer plating that involves more characters and generic dating. Older, shorter number plates also hold more value, add this to such a short supply of these older options with the unique desirability of combinations such as “A 1” or “111 A”, and you really do start climbing in to the many, many thousands of £££’s.
Cherished plates is a very old fashioned term used particularly for older, shorter and unique characters that are very much sought after, this term was given to indicate the combinations that hold high regard to its owner and are considered very valuable.
For those seeking a more budget-friendly and affordable option, new style registration plates provide a personalised touch at a significantly lower cost, thanks to the increased character elements on newer plates. Moonstone Plates offers a diverse range of number plates suitable for all budgets, starting at just £275.
Whether you're interested in buying or selling a number plate, Moonstone Plates is here to assist you. Visit www.moonstoneplates.com/buy for a wide selection or contact their team at 01995 213112 for personalised assistance.
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