Velology

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Velology is the study and collection of vehicle registration plates. This hobby involves the systematic acquisition, organization, and analysis of license plates from various regions and time periods. Velologists often focus on specific types of plates, such as those from a particular country, state, or era.

History

The practice of collecting vehicle registration plates began shortly after the introduction of the first license plates in the early 20th century. The first known license plates were issued in France in 1893 by the Paris Police Prefecture. Other countries soon followed, with the Netherlands issuing plates in 1898 and the United States in 1901.

Types of Plates

Velologists categorize plates based on several criteria, including:

• **Geographic Origin**: Plates from different countries, states, or provinces.
• **Historical Period**: Plates from different decades or significant historical periods.
• **Specialty Plates**: Plates issued for specific purposes, such as diplomatic plates, government plates, or vanity plates.

Collecting and Preservation

Collectors often seek plates in good condition, with minimal rust or damage. Preservation techniques include cleaning, painting, and storing plates in controlled environments to prevent deterioration. Some velologists also trade or sell plates to enhance their collections.

Organizations and Events

Several organizations support the hobby of velology, including:

• The Automobile License Plate Collectors Association (ALPCA), founded in 1953, is one of the largest and oldest organizations dedicated to the collection and study of license plates.
• The Europlate group, which focuses on European plates.

Annual conventions and swap meets provide opportunities for collectors to exchange plates, share knowledge, and display their collections.

Notable Collections

Some museums and private collectors have amassed significant collections of vehicle registration plates. These collections often include rare and historically significant plates, providing valuable insights into the history of vehicle registration and transportation.

See Also

• License plate
• Automobile License Plate Collectors Association
• Vanity plate
• Diplomatic plate