Michigan License Plate, 1930

Summary

Early state-issued license plates were made of porcelain-coated iron. Later, states stamped tin, steel, or even copper to make plates. During the Second World War several states used fiberboard. Plate colors varied and some states added symbols, mottoes, or other design elements. Today, states use reflective sheeting to coat a standard-sized aluminum blank which is then stamped and decorated.

Early state-issued license plates were made of porcelain-coated iron. Later, states stamped tin, steel, or even copper to make plates. During the Second World War several states used fiberboard. Plate colors varied and some states added symbols, mottoes, or other design elements. Today, states use reflective sheeting to coat a standard-sized aluminum blank which is then stamped and decorated.

Artifact

License plate

Date Made

1930

Creators

Michigan. Dept. of State 

Creator Notes

Made for the Michigan Department of State

Location

Not on exhibit to the public.

Object ID

68.85.22

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford. Gift of the State of Michigan.

Material

Steel (Alloy)

Color

Yellow
Black (Color)

Dimensions

Height: 5.5 in

Width: 12.625 in

Inscriptions

Stamped on front: 1-139-288 / MICHIGAN 1930

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