Michigan License Plate, 1913
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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
1913
Location
Not on exhibit to the public.
Object ID
68.85.5
Credit
From the Collections of The Henry Ford. Gift of the State of Michigan.
Material
Porcelain (Material)
Cast Iron
Color
Green
White (Color)
Dimensions
Height: 4.5 in
Width: 12 in
Inscriptions
On front: [Michigan seal] / MICH / 1913 / 24705
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