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Cherished Plates

Published 10 August 2026

What are Cherished Numbers?

Cherished numbers, also known as private number plates or personalised registrations, are unique vehicle registration numbers that can be purchased and assigned to a vehicle. In the UK, these plates are issued by the DVLA and can be a great way to personalise your vehicle, making it stand out from the crowd. Whether you're a fan of BMW, Mercedes, or Audi, a cherished number plate can add an extra touch of elegance and sophistication to your vehicle.

Why Collectors Love Cherished Plates

Collectors love cherished plates because of their rarity and uniqueness. Some plates can sell for thousands of pounds, with the most expensive one sold at auction being '25 O' for a record-breaking £518,480. According to UK law, private number plates must follow certain rules and guidelines set by the DVLA, including being no more than 7 characters long and not being offensive or misleading. The DVLA also has a process in place for purchasing and assigning cherished plates, which can be done online or through a registered dealer.

Types of Cherished Plates

There are several types of cherished plates available, including dateless plates, which do not have a specific date of issue, and prefix plates, which have a prefix letter or number that indicates the age of the vehicle. Some collectors also specialize in plates with specific combinations of letters and numbers, such as plates with the owner's initials or a significant date. For example, a BMW owner might want a plate with the letters 'BMW' or a Mercedes owner might want a plate with the letters 'MB'. Alloys and body kits can also be added to a vehicle to enhance its appearance, but a cherished plate is a unique way to personalise a vehicle.

How to Get a Cherished Plate

If you're interested in purchasing a cherished plate, you can search online for registered dealers or visit the DVLA website. Prices for cherished plates vary depending on the rarity and uniqueness of the plate, with some plates selling for as little as £100 and others selling for tens of thousands of pounds. To give you a better idea, a plate with the combination 'VIP 1' could sell for around £10,000, while a plate with the combination 'ABC 123' might sell for around £200. Once you've found a plate you like, you can assign it to your vehicle using the DVLA's online service or through a registered dealer.

If you're looking to purchase a cherished plate, be sure to do your research and work with a reputable dealer to ensure that you're getting a genuine plate. You can search for cherished plates on websites like FindPlates.co.uk, which offers a wide range of plates to choose from. With so many options available, you're sure to find the perfect plate to match your vehicle and personality.


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