While all of us have registration plates on our vehicles, the ones that catch your eye are generally the plates that have either very low numbers on them, or relay some sort of messages.  These are likely either personalised plates or cherished number plates.

Personalised plates are those that are created by the owner and usually reflect something to do with that person’s name, occupation or family.  For example, boxer Amir Khan has the plate “BOX IIIG” on his vehicle, while someone named Sonya might use the combination “SON 7A” to spell out her name.  By using numerals in place of letters—for example 3 for E and 5 for S—thousands of specialised words and phrases can be formed.  Several companies, along with the DVLA, offer search services so you can see if the plate you desire is available.  Plates with the middle digits of “60” are often fancied because they could substitute for the word “GO”.

Cherished plates, on the other hand, are plates with numbers that typically denote a vehicle with some history.  Owners of cherished number plates that have special, historical or significant value attached to them definitely cherish these plates.  Over time the value of these plates has increased exponentially, and many people will hang on to these plates ahead of just about anything else. 

Because of this, cherished plates can command quite a high price.  When someone does decide to sell a cherished number plate, it can fetch quite a price.  For example, back in 1989 when the previously unissued number plate 1 A was sold at auction, it fetched £160,000.  Imagine the price should it become available today!