License Plate Collectors Meet -- 6/30/2017

Every now and then, I like to explore another interest of mine apart from gambling -- collecting license plates. The group I am part of, the Automobile License Plate Collectors Association hosts numerous small gatherings across the nation and organizes a larger national event each year in various locations. This year, 2017, it took place in Ontario, California. I found it was the perfect excuse to visit my mother who lives nearby, so I attended what turned out to be my third national meet since I became a member in the mid-1980s.

My collection has reached a stage where I've acquired nearly every license plate I desire from the states I focus on -- those being California, Nevada, and Maryland (the three states I've resided in). The few remaining plates I need are quite rare and often command high prices. I'm contemplating pursuing full sets of license plates from Arizona and/or Utah, preferably by purchasing a collection rather than sourcing them individually, as that route tends to be pricier. Unfortunately, I haven't found a suitable collection yet.

I aimed to leave the event with some new additions, so I picked up a few more license plates to enhance my collections from the Caribbean, Pacific Islands, and even those from countries viewed as 'enemy states.' As an example, I found a particularly nice one from the state of Aimelik in Palau.



Take a look at the alligator (or perhaps it's a crocodile) depicted on the front yard. Additionally, I managed to obtain a plate from Somalia, which is notoriously difficult to access, making it a noteworthy acquisition.



For lots more, please see my recent blog entry at Wizard of Vegas.

Until we meet again next week, may fortune smile upon you.

Written by: Michael Shackleford