Embossed metal license plate or vehicle registration plate

Automobilia / Metal Signage

Common

Identified on October 29, 2026

Estimated Value

$10-$50 as a collectible plate in this condition; potentially higher if the number/year/state combination is desirable to a collector

A rectangular embossed steel license plate with raised characters reading 'WN 22 132177' or similar, though the exact sequence is partially obscured by rust and lighting. The plate has elongated mounting slots near the top and round mounting holes at the corners and lower edge, consistent with automotive registration plates. The embossed typography and layout suggest a vintage U.S. plate, likely from a mid-20th-century issue. The heavy oxidation indicates long-term exposure to the elements. No clear state name or slogan is visible in the image, so identification remains tentative.

Era

Mid-20th century, likely 1950s-1970s

Origin

United States, likely a state-issued plate

Material

Stamped steel with painted finish (now heavily rusted)

Condition

Fair to Poor; significant surface rust, oxidation, edge corrosion, paint loss, and wear. The plate is structurally intact but shows age-related deterioration and possible bending at the corners.

Share this identification:

Physical Details

Dimensions

Approximately 12 inches wide by 6 inches tall

Weight

Light

Authentication

Authenticity Score

Medium; the construction, embossing, and mounting format are consistent with an authentic vintage license plate, but the exact issuing authority and date cannot be confirmed from the visible image alone

Provenance

Likely removed from a vehicle or salvaged from storage; exact state and registration history cannot be determined from the visible side alone. The prefix may indicate a state code or series designation, but this is not confidently identifiable from the image.

Historical Significance

Vintage license plates are popular automobilia collectibles and can reflect changes in state design, numbering systems, and vehicle registration history. While this example is not especially rare in itself, plates with unusual prefixes, low numbers, or specific state/year combinations can be historically interesting.

Restoration Notes

•No visible restoration detected
•Heavy rust and corrosion present
•Possible edge damage and deformation at corners

Learn more about this type of antique

This identification and value range are AI-generated research aids, not authentication, certification, or a formal appraisal. Learn about the limitations and when to consult a qualified professional appraiser.