LICENSE PLATE

CulturePrince Edward Island

Date1928

Geography Prince Edward Island, Canada

Dimensions32.5 x 14 cm (12 13/16 x 5 1/2 in.)

Object numberHF.80.42.7 A

DescriptionA rectangular metal license plate. The plate has rounded edges with a raised lip around outer edge. At each corner, there is a circular hole and two curved rectangular holes along the top. The background is primarily green enamel on both sides with a white border near the front edge. Rounded numbers and letters in white enamel are embossed on the front - "Seed Potatoes Foxes Prince Edward Island 5-840 1928".
Narrative

In 1928, Prince Edward Island was a Canadian trendsetter when the province added promotional highlights onto the license plate. Contemporary industries such as seed potatoes and foxes were embossed directly onto the plate advertising the Island's lucrative exports. The trend spread across the country and has continued as each Canadian province and territory uses their individual license plates to highlight natural beauty or historical significance.