Lot 274

1925 California Automobile License Plate No. 3A-4708 – Original Embossed Steel DMV Plate – Early Motor Vehicle Registration

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Lot 274
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1925 California Automobile License Plate No. 3A-4708 – Original Embossed Steel DMV Plate – Early Motor Vehicle Registration
1925 California Automobile License Plate No. 3A-4708 – Original Embossed Steel DMV Plate – Early Motor Vehicle Registration
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1925 California Automobile License Plate No. 3A-4708 – Original Embossed Steel DMV Plate – Early Motor Vehicle Registration

Starting Bid: $5

(0 Bids)
by California Auction Company LLC
August 1, 2026 9:00 AM PDT
Live Auction
1212 E. Harding Way
Stockton, CA, US 95205

An original 1925 California automobile license plate, embossed steel, bearing registration number 3A-4708. Issued during the formative years of California's rapidly expanding automobile culture, this authentic California Department of Motor Vehicles registration plate represents a scarce and highly desirable survivor from the state's early motoring era. Manufactured in heavy-gauge embossed steel, the plate features the characteristic 1925 layout with prominent raised registration characters and the abbreviated "CAL" designation along the lower center. Produced during a period when California was emerging as the nation's automotive epicenter, these license plates accompanied vehicles traveling the state's expanding network of highways that linked growing cities, agricultural communities, and coastal destinations. The present example displays a remarkable untouched surface with extensive age-earned oxidation, weathering, and a richly developed century-old patina. Traces of the original painted finish remain visible beneath the corrosion, while the deeply embossed registration number 3A-4708 and identifying details remain legible. Its honest, unrestored condition preserves the authenticity prized by collectors and conveys the plate's long history of service. Original California license plates from the 1920s are increasingly difficult to acquire and are among the most sought-after examples of early American automobilia. Their bold embossed typography, historical importance, and association with the pioneering years of West Coast motoring make them favorites among collectors of transportation history, vintage garage décor, and industrial Americana. An outstanding original survivor from the golden age of early California motoring.

  • Literature: Comparable examples are illustrated in: • Michael J. Wiener, License Plates of the United States: A Pictorial History. • ALPCA (Automobile License Plate Collectors Association) publications and archival references relating to early California license plates. • California Department of Motor Vehicles historical license plate references.
  • Circa: 1925
  • Condition: Original unrestored condition. Heavy overall oxidation, corrosion, and surface rust throughout with significant weathering and scattered remnants of the original painted finish. Embossed registration number 3A-4708 and "CAL" designation remain legible despite extensive age-related wear. Expected wear to mounting holes and edges from decades of period use. Structurally sound overall with strong embossing and an attractive untouched patina.

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $49 $5
$50 $199 $10
$200 $499 $25
$500 + $50