Historic Custom SA Plate number plates

• Registered in SA
• Format is LNN
• 3 Characters long
• Black on White background
• Listed in Name

Description

In 1905, the Adelaide City Council took the pioneering step of issuing the first number plates in South Australia. These plates predate the state government's legislation in 1906, rendering them among the earliest issued plates in the state.

With the establishment of the state government's number plate system, a clash emerged with the existing local government system, resulting in considerable confusion. To resolve this, it was mandated that the existing plates carry an "A" prefix, thereby distinguishing the two systems. The two system ran concurrently until 1913.

In 1909, A20 was first registered to Felix & Norman Caldwell of Port Adelaide on their 32Hp Crossley Charabanc, as evident in accompanying image.

The A20, is in a custom plate format and is now issued by the current state government and is transferable. Such a plate, with its rare combination of photographic evidence and documented provenance, represents a unique investment opportunity. As one of the earliest issued plates on South Australian roads, its value is poised to appreciate.

Only a limited number of A prefix plates were issued between 1906 and 1913 but today less than 10 exist with known photographic provenance.

Is currently in Black over white but can be made silver over black if preferred.

The primary image is of a bus-load of schoolboys waving flags driving across North Terrace past Government House heading towards North Adelaide on their way to cheer for their school at an outdoor event. The full image is viewable here.
State library photo active link for reference.

https://collections.slsa.sa.gov.au/resource/PRG+280/1/11/526#