The number plate ‘K1 NGS’ was the registration number that really set the precedent for personalised plates, having sold for £231,000, with personalised plates now a booming market. Depending on the rarity of the number plate, the price of the plate can vary widely, from a mere £50 to hundreds of thousands of pounds. The question everyone has is; is it worth the money?

Private registration numbers are purchased for different reasons. Some registration numbers hold sentimental value, and are truly a cherished number plate for the owner, which could include number plates with names or dates of birth. Buyers are quite often willing to pay large amounts to get a plate that has a specific meaning to them. Other plates are purchased for show and the prices paid tend to depend on the appeal of the plate, or simply on the buyer’s budget.

There’s also a small group of individuals and companies who buy number plates to invest in, or to sell on at a profit. Quite often, these plates are purchased at DVLA auctions and later sold, as soon as the public realises the appeal of the particular registration number.

Whatever the reason for buying private registration plates, you can always be sure that the registration plate remains yours, and won’t be reassigned to another owner or vehicle unless you agree to sell it. This does not necessarily mean that you will get your money’s worth when you decide to sell, so you need to carefully consider whether the significance or appeal of the unique number plate, is really worth the money.