Historical Pennsylvania License Plates

Understanding the fascinating journey of historical Pennsylvania license plates opens a unique window into the state's culture, history, and innovation. From the early 20th century to today's collector markets, these plates have evolved in design, purpose, and regulation. Whether you are a collector, history buff, or just curious about what makes Pennsylvania’s plates stand out, this guide brings you everything you need to know.

The Origins of Pennsylvania License Plates

Pennsylvania issued its first license plates back in 1906, following the early examples set by cities like Philadelphia. These initial plates were handmade and often created by vehicle owners themselves. Eventually, the state standardized the process, producing official plates that not only identified vehicles but also served as historical markers reflecting different eras. Early plates were simple, flat, and made of porcelain, an elegant but fragile material.

By 1916, Pennsylvania switched to embossed steel plates, establishing a trend that remains to this day. These early issue plates were larger than the modern size, but by 1956, Pennsylvania adopted the standardized 12 inches by 6 inches dimensions following national guidelines. Today, early plates, especially those with unique features like the Liberty Bell separator or keystone separator, are treasured by collectors.

Standard Passenger and Motorcycle Plates Evolution

Throughout history, Pennsylvania offered different plate types for various vehicle categories. Standard passenger plates became the most common type, often showcasing innovative designs. Meanwhile, motorcycle plates were smaller but equally detailed, sometimes even featuring unique color schemes distinct from passenger cars. Collectors often seek out these smaller plates due to their rarity.

Notably, during World War II, material shortages led to plates being made from alternative materials like fiberboard or recycled metals. This made some World War II era plates fragile and highly collectible today.

Design Changes Across Decades

The visual design of Pennsylvania plates shifted with cultural and political changes. Early plates were typically blue on yellow, a color combination that became iconic for the state. The bicentennial state '76 designs, for example, honored America's 200th birthday with patriotic color schemes and the incorporation of historical emblems.

• 1916: Introduction of embossed steel plates.
• 1942-1945: Use of fiberboard plates due to metal rationing.
• 1971: Switch to dark blue background with yellow letters in serials.
• 1976: Release of the Bicentennial plate featuring a red, white, and blue color scheme.
• 1999: Introduction of plates featuring a Keystone separator once again.

Understanding Liberty Bell and Keystone Separators

Collectors often reference the Liberty Bell separator and the Keystone separator when identifying Pennsylvania plates. These small graphic elements served both functional and symbolic roles, making plates easily identifiable by era.

• Liberty Bell Separator: Introduced to commemorate American independence and Pennsylvania's role as the birthplace of liberty.
• Keystone Separator: Reflected Pennsylvania’s nickname, the Keystone State, symbolizing its central role in the founding of the U.S.

The Role of Registration Stickers and Expiration Dates

Starting in the mid-20th century, registration stickers became a key element of Pennsylvania plates. Typically placed on the top left or right corner, these stickers indicated the expiration of the vehicle's registration, which historically was always on March 31 of each year.

• Introduced widely in the 1950s.
• March 31 became the standard renewal deadline.
• Stickers color-coded by year helped law enforcement quickly verify valid registrations.

Although Pennsylvania phased out plate stickers in 2017, vintage plates with intact registration stickers are highly sought after today.

Types of Historical Pennsylvania License Plates

Over the decades, Pennsylvania issued several types of historical plates, each with unique traits. Here are the most notable:

• Passenger Plates: Standard for everyday vehicles, evolving in background color and serial formats.
• Motorcycle Plates: Smaller and rare, often featuring distinct designs.
• Truck Plates: Heavier vehicles had different codes and color schemes.
• Bus Plates: Larger sizes and distinct colors helped differentiate them.
• Dealer Plates: Issued to vehicle dealerships for test drives and inventory movement.
• Antique Plates: Introduced for vehicles over 25 years old, these have special eligibility criteria.

How to Apply for a Vintage Registration Plate in Pennsylvania

If you own a vintage vehicle and want to display an authentic plate, Pennsylvania makes the process clear. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Check Eligibility: Your vehicle must be a classic, antique, or collectible model at least 15 years old.
2. Obtain the Plate: You must have an original plate from the same year as your vehicle's manufacture.
3. Submit Form MV-11V: This form is available on the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation website.
4. Pay Fees: There is a one-time fee for this service.
5. Receive Approval: Once approved, you can legally display your historical plate.

Be aware: The plate must be in good condition and legible to be approved.

Why License Plate Collectors Love Pennsylvania Plates

Collectors often favor historical Pennsylvania license plates because of their:

• Unique design changes across decades.
• Durable materials (especially pre-WWII porcelain or steel).
• Iconic symbols like the Liberty Bell and Keystone.
• Varied plate types like motorcycle, passenger, and truck plates.

Fun Fact: Some plates with rare serial combinations or misprints are worth thousands of dollars today.

Common Questions About Historical Pennsylvania License Plates

Can I use a vintage plate on my daily driver?
No, vintage plates in Pennsylvania are reserved for antique or classic vehicles under special insurance and registration conditions.

What is the oldest Pennsylvania license plate?
The oldest state-issued plate dates back to 1906, but some city-issued plates like Philadelphia’s 1903 version predate them.

Are blue on yellow plates still valid today?
They are collectible, but unless specifically re-registered under vintage registration, they cannot be used for active vehicles.

What do letters in serials represent?
Letters in serial numbers often denoted different regions or plate types. For instance, 'PA' might signify a standard passenger series, while 'MC' might indicate a motorcycle plate.

Where can I buy historical Pennsylvania plates?
Collectors often find them at flea markets, antique stores, online auctions, or specialty collector shows focused on automobilia.

Fascinating Facts About Pennsylvania License Plates

• Pennsylvania is one of the few states that never used the letters I, O, Q, and U on passenger plates to avoid confusion.
• The keystone design element has been a recurring symbol across multiple decades.
• During World War II, Pennsylvania encouraged carpooling to reduce the need for materials, affecting plate issuance volumes.
• Some 1920s and 1930s plates are so durable that they still show almost no rust today.
• The state has celebrated milestones like the Bicentennial and historical anniversaries through limited edition plates.

How to Start Collecting Historical Plates in Pennsylvania

1. Research: Learn about different types and eras (focus especially on dark blue and blue on yellow bases).
2. Start Small: Buy a few affordable plates from local sellers or eBay.
3. Join Clubs: Organizations like ALPCA (Automobile License Plate Collectors Association) provide community and resources.
4. Attend Shows: Find plate-specific collector events throughout Pennsylvania.
5. Preserve Carefully: Store plates in dry, temperature-controlled environments to prevent deterioration.

Collectors often find that historical Pennsylvania license plates tell a much larger story than just transportation - they are windows into American life.