NSW 1 Personalised Number Plate To Be Auctioned For Sale

In a rare and remarkable event, the iconic 'NSW 1' license plate, considered the first issued registration plate in Australia, has been put up for auction. The auction, being conducted by Lloyds Auction House, has already garnered significant interest, with bidding surpassing $2 million within days of its launch. This remarkable piece of automotive history is expected to fetch a record-breaking price, potentially shattering the current Australian auction record held by the 'NSW 4' plate, which sold for a staggering $2.45 million in 2017.

The 'NSW 1' plate holds immense historical significance, having been issued in 1910 to the New South Wales Police Commissioner. It served as a symbol of authority and power, gracing the vehicles of prominent figures in the state's history. Over the years, the plate has passed through a few hands, including well-known collectors and enthusiasts. Its current owner, keen to share its legacy with the world, has opted for public auction, ensuring that the plate will find a new home that appreciates its unique value.

The auction has attracted attention from collectors worldwide, drawn to the plate's rarity, historical significance, and the prestige associated with owning such a symbol of Australian motoring heritage. The bidding is expected to intensify in the coming weeks, as potential buyers recognize the opportunity to acquire a piece of Australian automotive history.

The bidding for the 'NSW 1' plate has already surpassed the $10 million mark, indicating the immense demand and enthusiasm surrounding this iconic piece. This could potentially set a new record for the most expensive number plate sold in Australia, surpassing the current benchmark of $2.45 million for the 'NSW 4' plate.

The auction for the 'NSW 1' plate is not merely a matter of financial exchange; it represents the appreciation and recognition of a piece of Australian automotive history. It is a testament to the enduring allure of motoring heritage and the passion that car enthusiasts have for their vehicles. As the bids continue to soar, the 'NSW 1' plate is poised to become an even more coveted symbol of automotive excellence and Australian history.


In a remarkable display of collector enthusiasm, the bidding for the iconic 'NSW 1' number plate has surpassed a staggering $10 million, just a mere 72 hours after being listed for auction. This extraordinary surge, still with 43 days remaining before the auction concludes, has shattered the previous Australian record for the most expensive number plate, set by the 'NSW 4' plate in 2017 at $2.45 million.

The 'NSW 1' plate, the first ever issued in the state of New South Wales, holds a unique position in Australian automotive history. Its rich provenance, dating back to 1911, has instilled it with an aura of prestige and exclusivity, making it the ultimate collector's item for car enthusiasts and investors alike.

The bidding frenzy has been attributed to a combination of factors. The rarity of the 'NSW 1' plate, coupled with its historical significance, has undoubtedly fuelled the desire among collectors to own this coveted piece of automotive memorabilia. Additionally, the allure of potentially setting a new global record for the most expensive number plate has attracted international bidders, further driving up the price.

The current highest bid of $10.1 million is already well beyond the estimated value of the plate, which was placed between $3 million and $5 million. This remarkable surge suggests that the bidding will continue to escalate in the coming weeks, with the possibility of surpassing the current global record of $20.5 million, set in 2008 for the UAE number plate '1'.

The auction of the 'NSW 1' plate is not just a remarkable event in the world of car collecting; it also represents a significant moment in Australian history. The plate's connection to the early days of motoring in Australia and its embodiment of the state's identity make it a piece of national heritage, worthy of such a high price.

As the auction nears its conclusion, the anticipation and excitement surrounding the 'NSW 1' plate continue to grow. The identity of the final bidder remains a mystery, but the person who secures this coveted asset will undoubtedly be recognized as a true connoisseur of Australian automotive history.