A Relic of the Road Victorian Number Plate '20' Up for Grabs

Get ready for a bidding war, car enthusiasts and status symbol seekers! A piece of Australian motoring history, a Victorian heritage number plate bearing the simple yet prestigious number '20', is heading to auction and is expected to fetch millions. This isn't your average license plate; it's a coveted collector's item, a gateway to a world of exclusivity and a potential investment windfall.

The allure of heritage number plates, particularly those with low numbers like '20', stems from their rarity and historical significance. These plates were issued in the early days of motoring, around 1911 in Victoria's case. Back then, cars were a novelty, a symbol of progress and wealth. Owning a car meant belonging to a select group, and a low-numbered plate further amplified that status. These plates weren't handed out like today's registrations; they were most likely assigned chronologically to early car owners, making them a tangible link to the pioneering days of Australian motoring.

The value of heritage number plates has skyrocketed in recent decades. The convenience and personalisation offered by modern vanity plates simply can't compete with the prestige and history embodied by these early registrations. Australia, particularly Victoria, New South Wales, and Queensland, has seen a surge in demand for these plates, driven by individual collectors, investment firms, and even superannuation funds. These low-digit plates have become a lucrative investment, with values steadily climbing year after year.

The current record for a Victorian two-digit heritage plate belongs to number '14', which sold for a staggering $2.275 million in 2022. With bidding for '20' already exceeding $1.3 million at the time of writing, experts are eagerly anticipating if it can dethrone '14' and establish a new benchmark. The online auction hosted by Trading Garage is attracting significant interest, and all eyes are glued to the bidding activity.

The potential buyer profile for such a prestigious plate is fascinating. It could be a car aficionado with a deep appreciation for automotive history, someone who desires a unique identifier for their prized classic car. It might attract a high-net-worth individual seeking a conversation starter, a symbol of their success and exclusivity. There's also a strong possibility of investment firms or superannuation funds viewing this as a lucrative asset, one that holds its value and potentially appreciates over time.

The excitement surrounding the auction of '20' transcends the car community. It's a captivating story of the evolution of transportation, a tangible reminder of a bygone era. It's a testament to the enduring human desire for collectables and status symbols. The final hammer price will not only be a record-breaker, but also a reflection of the cultural and historical significance these heritage plates hold.

This isn't just about a number plate; it's about owning a piece of motoring history. The winner will not only be acquiring a coveted status symbol, but also becoming a custodian of a relic from the early days of Australian motoring. The final price tag will be a fascinating indicator of the ever-growing value these heritage plates hold in today's market. So, buckle up and keep an eye on the auction! The bidding war for '20' promises to be a thrilling ride.