As you will have seen on some of the images on CarsForStars.Co.Uk, many luxury hire cars boast unique number plates. Adding an extra sense of extravagance to the vehicle, number plates play a key role in the image a vehicle portrays. Being rather fascinated by the world of private plates, we were not surprised to hear of the sale of the number plate ‘RR1’. Sold for a sizable amount, an unnamed purchaser bagged this unique plate for £460,000.
Toby Wilson, head of automobilia at Bonhams, was thrilled with the result of the auction, commenting the following:
“We are delighted with this result, the most ever paid for a registration plate at a private auction.
“The impressive amount it achieved reflects the importance of Rolls-Royce in the motoring world, and also the fact that car owners are always looking for the extra something to make their pride and joy even more unique.”
According to sources, ‘RR1’ was owned by Bentley who purchased is for less than £5,000 in 1968. This means, in 50 years, the plate has increased in value by 9483%!
Though described as “one of the most special registration plates in the world’ ahead of its sale at the Goodwood Revival, the plate did not quite meet its estimate of £600,000. This means, ‘RR1’ is the second most expensive number plate ever purchased. Taking the top position is ’25 0’; a number plate that sold for a record-breaking£518,000 at a Government-run auction four years ago.
While we do not know whether the plate will adorn a stunning Rolls Royce or be sold on, one thing we do know is that there is one very rich, happy customer out there somewhere.
What are you thoughts on this, do number plates warrant the money people spend on them? Share your comments with us.