Leeds Mayor Registration ‘U 1’ Offered for Sale by Regplates.com

U 1 Historic Number Plate

One of the UK’s most historically significant number plates, U 1, is now available for purchase through Regplates.com, the leading specialist in personalised registrations. This prestigious plate, long associated with the Mayor of Leeds, carries a legacy that dates back to the early 1900s when single-letter, single-digit registrations were first issued.


A Symbol of Civic Heritage
The registration U 1 was originally allocated to the City of Leeds, making it one of the earliest and most exclusive plates in the country. For decades, it adorned the official mayoral vehicle, symbolising civic pride and authority. Its minimalist format—just one letter and one digit—places it among the rarest and most desirable plates in existence.


A Unique Opportunity for Collectors
Now offered for sale by Regplates.com, U 1 presents a once-in-a-generation opportunity for collectors, investors, and enthusiasts of British motoring heritage. Single-digit plates with historical provenance have consistently commanded premium values, and U 1 stands out not only for its format but for its deep-rooted connection to Leeds’ civic history.


Why Choose Regplates.com?
With over 30 years of experience, Regplates.com is trusted by thousands for sourcing and securing elite registrations. Their expert team ensures a seamless transfer process and offers personalised support for buyers seeking iconic plates like U 1.

The Prestige and History of Single-Letter, Single-Number Number Plates in the UK

In the world of personalised number plates, few combinations evoke as much prestige, rarity, and historical significance as the elusive single-letter, single-number registrations. These minimalist plates—such as “A 1” or “F 1”—are not just status symbols; they are artefacts of British motoring heritage. At Regplates.com, we’ve long celebrated the cultural and collector value of cherished registrations, and today we delve into the fascinating story behind these iconic plates.

Origins: The Birth of UK Number Plates

The journey begins with the Motor Car Act of 1903, which came into force on 1 January 1904. This legislation required all motor vehicles to be registered and display a unique alphanumeric identifier. The first format was simple: a one- or two-letter code representing the local authority, followed by a number from 1 to 9999.

This system gave rise to the earliest and most coveted combinations—single-letter followed by single-digit plates. These were issued by local councils across the UK, with “A 1” famously being the first plate ever registered in London. It was issued to Earl Russell, the then Secretary of State for Transport, and remains one of the most valuable plates in existence.

What Makes Single-Letter, Single-Number Plates So Special?

These plates are rare for several reasons:

  • Limited issuance: Only a handful were ever released between 1903 and 1904.
  • Local authority control: Each council had its own allocation, meaning combinations like “C 1” (West Riding of Yorkshire) or “F 1” (Essex) were tied to specific regions.
  • Historic value: Many of these plates have been passed down through generations or acquired by collectors, making them nearly impossible to obtain through conventional means.
  • Visual simplicity: The minimalist format makes them instantly recognisable and desirable.

Regional Legacy: Yorkshire’s Role in Plate History

Yorkshire played a significant role in the early registration system. The plate “C 1” was issued in 1904 by the West Riding County Council. It remained with a private owner for nearly 40 years before being sold in 2018 for an estimated £500,000. This plate, along with others like “C 2” and “C 9,” reflects the region’s deep connection to motoring history.

For those interested in the administrative legacy of Yorkshire councils, including their role in vehicle registration, you can explore more via the Leeds City Council website.

Record-Breaking Sales and Ownership

Over the decades, these plates have fetched astronomical prices at auctions. Here are a few notable examples:

  • F 1: Originally issued to Essex County Council in 1904, it was sold in 2008 to Afzal Kahn, founder of Kahn Design, for a reported £440,000. It’s now estimated to be worth over £10 million.
  • D 1: Issued in Kent, this plate was sold at a DVLA auction in 2009 for £362,000.
  • M 1: Registered in Cheshire, it was sold at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in 2006 for £331,000.

These figures underscore the enduring appeal of single-letter, single-number plates—not just as identifiers, but as luxury assets.

The DVLA and Auction Evolution

While the original plates were issued by local councils, the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) now oversees all registration transfers and auctions. Since the late 1980s, the DVLA has held regular auctions offering rare and desirable plates. However, true single-letter, single-number plates are rarely available, as most are already in private hands.

At Regplates.com, we monitor DVLA auctions closely and offer a DVLA auction guide to help buyers navigate the process.

Legal and Display Requirements

Despite their age, these plates must still comply with modern display regulations. According to UK law:

  • Front plates must be white with black characters.
  • Rear plates must be yellow with black characters.
  • Historic vehicles (pre-1980) may display black plates with white or silver characters.

Owners of cherished plates often opt for classic vehicles to match the vintage aesthetic, although many plates are retained on certificate for investment purposes.

Cultural Impact and Collector Sentiment

These plates have transcended their original purpose. They are now:

  • Symbols of status: Often seen on luxury cars like Bentleys, Rolls-Royces, and Ferraris.
  • Investment assets: With values appreciating over time, they’re considered alternative investments.
  • Conversation starters: Their rarity and history make them ideal for collectors and enthusiasts.

At Regplates.com, we’ve helped countless clients secure rare plates and understand the emotional and financial value they carry. Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, or simply learn more, our personalised number plate search tool is a great place to start.

Leeds and the Northern Connection

Leeds, as part of the historic West Riding of Yorkshire, was once a key player in vehicle registration. While the city itself didn’t issue “C 1,” it was part of the broader administrative region that did. Today, Leeds remains a hub for automotive culture and innovation, with strong ties to classic car events and collector communities.

For more on Leeds’ role in transportation and civic history, visit the Leeds City Council website.

As the UK moves toward digital plates and smart mobility, the allure of classic registrations remains strong. Single-letter, single-number plates are unlikely to be replicated, making them timeless treasures in a rapidly evolving landscape.

At Regplates.com, we’re committed to preserving this legacy while embracing the future. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a newcomer to the world of personalised plates, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.