12 Vintage License Plate Frames People Actually Collect

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Classic 1950s Single Bar Chevrolet Frame

This frame was made for Chevrolet vehicles during the mid 1950s. It shows the simple metal design that was common before more decorative automotive accessories became popular. Collectors like it for its connection to early car culture in the United States. The metal has a patina that comes from decades of exposure to sun and weather.

Some collectors choose to polish the frame gently to highlight its original lettering. It often came with raised letters that identified the Chevy brand in a modest way. Frames like this are usually found at car shows or flea markets. They can carry a story about where they were used and how they survived. Most examples are rare because many were discarded when cars were scrapped. Estimated value for one in good condition is around $120.

1960s Ford Dealer Promotional Frame

This frame was distributed by a Ford dealership to customers who purchased new cars in the 1960s. It has the dealer name stamped across the top and a chrome finish that has dulled over time. People who collect automotive memorabilia enjoy its link to a specific place and time in automotive sales history.

The frame shows wear that collectors find honest and appealing. Many believe that these pieces reflect a personal connection to local business culture. They often feature the town name which can add local interest. Frames like this can remind owners of road trips or family cars from decades ago. They may include small rust spots that some see as signs of character. Estimated price for one in original condition is $95.

1970s Motorcycle Club License Frame

This type of frame was used by members of a regional motorcycle club in the 1970s. It features bold club graphics and sometimes club slogans. Motorcycle enthusiasts often look for this item because it links to club history and early biker culture. The metal can be steel or aluminum and is cut to fit smaller motorcycle plates.

Collectors enjoy the aged paint and the layers of chips from years of rides. The frame might arrive with small dents and scrapes from decades of use. Stories tied to rides and rallies can make some examples more interesting than others. Motorcycle club frames are rarer than standard car frames. A well worn example can go for around $150.

Route 66 Tourist Plate Frame

This frame was sold to travelers along the famous Route 66 in the mid to late 20th century. It features the iconic road shield symbol and the route name in bold lettering. People keep these as reminders of cross country road trips and Americana tourism. The paint can be faded from sun exposure but the design remains clear.

Frames like this evoke roadside stops, diners, and motels along the old highway. Collectors appreciate them because they recall a period before interstate travel dominated long distance driving. Some original examples show stickers or markings from places visited long ago. A Route 66 license frame in good state can fetch around $130.

Vintage Harley Davidson Dealer Frame

This dealer frame was offered by Harley Davidson shops in the 1960s and 1970s. It has the old Harley logo and dealer details on thick metal. Motorcycle fans seek these frames because they tie into the history of one of the most famous bike makers.

The metal has weight and often a natural wear that shows decades of life. Collectors notice the specific font of the era which differs from later designs. Some frames include enamel paint that has small chips. Others have been stored inside and show mild signs of age. An original Harley dealer frame can be priced at about $175.

1940s Military License Frame

This frame was used on vehicles that belonged to the military or were associated with service during the 1940s. It carries stenciled numbers and branch designation that link it to World War Two period transport. Collectors of military memorabilia value the direct connection to historical service units.

The metal is thicker than civilian frames and often shows green or black paint. Many have rust spots around the screw holes from decades of service. The frame can make listeners think of old army bases and convoys. Its age and unique markings attract those drawn to military history. Price for a good example is around $220.

1980s Car Club Commemorative Frame

This frame was produced for a regional car club that held annual meets in the 1980s. It displays the club name and a symbol representing classic car pride. Automotive social groups often gave these frames to members as tokens. This type of frame reminds collectors of gatherings on grassy fields and show lanes lined with polished vehicles.

The colors may have faded from exposure but still show the group’s logo. Many are found at auctions where vintage car items are offered. Collectors enjoy how each tells a story of community and shared interest. Estimated price is near $90.

1960s Chrysler Plymouth Frame

This frame was given to buyers of new Chrysler or Plymouth cars in the 1960s. It features the model names in simple raised metal lettering. Fans of classic mopars value these pieces as links to the golden age of muscle cars. The frame metal has often taken on a warm aged look that many find appealing.

Paint remnants can show original dealership colors. Some examples include small dents from decades of mounting on cars. These frames are reminders of drive in culture and open roads. Classic car events are popular places to find them. A good example runs about $110.

Oldsmobile Collectors Frame from the 1970s

This frame was offered by Oldsmobile dealerships to new car buyers in the early 1970s. It includes the old rocket logo and dealer contact details. Classic car collectors look for this type because it links to a well known American brand with a long production history.

The frame metal often shows light pitting from age. Paint can remain in the lettering recessed areas if it was protected. Many were taken off cars long ago and saved in boxes or attics. Enthusiasts enjoy researching the dealership history tied to a specific frame. Estimated value sits around $100.

Classic Truck Club Frame

This plate frame was made for a truck enthusiast club in the 1970s and 1980s. It shows the club emblem and sometimes the year of a meet on the lower edge. Truck collectors like this item because it refers to vintage pickup culture that grew after World War Two. The metal is often sturdy and heavy.

Some examples have small scratches from decades of being mounted on vehicles that traveled dirt roads. Owners of vintage pickups enjoy pairing these with period correct trucks at shows. The rarity of some club editions lifts interest among collectors. A durable original frame can cost close to $105.

1950s Cadillac Dealer Frame

This frame was commonly given to customers who bought Cadillac vehicles during the 1950s. Featuring a combination of chrome and black enamel, it prominently displays the Cadillac brand. The frame was designed with simplicity and elegance, reflecting Cadillac’s luxury image during this period. Collectors value this piece for its connection to the golden age of American luxury cars.

While many of these frames have signs of wear, the detailing and polished finish can still make them stand out. Some frames have minor rust or fading, which only adds character. They can often be found at classic car auctions or vintage automotive sales. A frame in good condition can fetch around $150.

1980s Toyota Dealer Frame

Offered to new Toyota owners in the 1980s, this frame bears the Toyota name and logo with a bold, minimalist design. Made of steel, it is durable and still highly collectible today. The frame’s sleek design is indicative of the carmaker’s style during that decade, aligning with Toyota’s entry into the global automotive market. Car enthusiasts who appreciate Japanese automotive history often collect these frames.

Some frames still retain their vibrant colors, while others have faded over time, giving them a weathered, nostalgic appeal. A few examples show some discoloration around the edges, a sign of its age and original use. These frames are great finds for those focused on Toyota’s history. The estimated price for one in decent condition is around $80.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.