History By The Numbers — The Rise and Fall of the Porcelain License Plate

Collector and researcher Eric Taylor of porcelainplates.net joins Elizabeth McLeod for a fascinating look at the earliest years of the not-so-humble automobile license plate, and gives his surprising pick as the rarest item in an impressive collection of pre-WWI plates featured in our Autumn Majestic Auction. Together, they discuss the early automobilists and uncover how these resilient, hand-crafted porcelain plates emerged as symbols of status, ingenuity, and civic identity in the earliest days of motoring. Eric also highlights several of the most exceptional and elusive examples in an extraordinary lineup of porcelain plates featured on Day Two of our Autumn Majestic auction—selections that may well challenge what collectors think they know about rarity, craftsmanship, and the enduring allure of these early road relics.Eric’s passion for license plates began early — at just thirteen, when his brother passed along a few used Indiana plates to hang on his wall. That small gesture sparked a lifelong fascination. Soon after, Eric and his father were scouring swap meets across Southern California in search of new finds, a shared pursuit that led them to join the Automobile License Plate Collectors Association (ALPCA) in 1986. Their first national convention the following year marked the start of lasting friendships, mentorships, and a deepening commitment to preserving the rich history behind these distinctive automotive artifacts.To explore more of Eric’s research, historical insights, and wonderful examples from his research, visit porcelainplates.net — a website for porcelain license plate collectors and enthusiasts — and discover the full story behind these remarkable relics of automotive history.Tune in now for an enlightening and educational conversation that brings automotive history to life—and discover why these early porcelain license plates still matter today. And subscribe so you never miss an episode, and don’t miss your chance to see these rare and beautiful relics of the road up close in our upcoming Autumn Majestic auction.Preview our Upcoming Auction: Autumn MajesticJoin us for a preview of our upcoming feature auction, taking place November 1st — 5th.Saturday November 1st: Noon – 5 PMGallery Hours Weekdays: 10 AM – 5 PMPrivate viewings also available by appointment.Explore our extraordinary auction galleries, showcasing a world of treasures — fine art, rare antiques, exquisite Asian masterpieces, timeless collectibles, classic automobiles, vintage timepieces, and more.The auction runs November 6–9, 2025, beginning daily at 11:00 AM EST. Phone bidding and in-person registrations are limited—secure yours today by calling 207-354-8141 or submitting a Phone/Absentee Bid Form.For questions on bidding visit How to Bid, or please contact us directly