Classic cars forum & vehicle restoration.

[Rich5ltr]

Hi - does anyone know the name of the font used on 1930s registration plates?

Daft reason for asking but I am super-detailing a 1:12 scale Airfix Bentley 4 1/2 Litre Le Mans and the number plates supplied with the model really grate on me. I intend to make some with silver Letraset but wondered if anyone can help with the font?


p.s. Here's the model. I made it 30+ years ago and recently re-discovered it in my Mum's wardrobe! I intend to dust it down and add some detail using the modern modelling techniques that are available these days.

[mikeC]

There was no specific font used; lettering had to comply with very precise dimensions, but were very often hand painted, so the actual style was up to the individual artist. For instance, a figure 3 could have a flat top or a round top, either would meet the legal requirements.
If you want to use a modern font, try Calibri Bold or similar non-serif style.

[Brian M]

I had the same model and like yours the cycle wings were always falling off.

The number plates do look a bit wrong, this is the history of typefaces according to Tippers:

http://www.tippersvintageplates.co.uk/phdi/p1.nsf/supppages/tippers?opendocument&part=2
_________________
Brian
1970 Volvo Amazon and 1978 Safari 15-4 Caravan
Classic Safari Forum: www.classicsafaris.co.uk

[Peter_L]

Google "Licence Plate Fonts" "Registration Plate Fonts" and/or similar may provide some examples.

I built one of those Bentley's back in the 1980's. I loaded the unseen interior areas, e.g petrol tank, engine, with plasticine, to give it some weight. Mounted it on a plinth and had fibre optics going to the lights and dashboard. I sold it just before I moved to Canada.

I know I printed number a number plate PL 1946 using inverse on Adobe, so the plate came out black and the characters, the white paper. Have no idea what font.

[Rich5ltr]

Thanks for your suggestions chaps, I'll see what i can find.