vintage license size

[exeric]

I am hoping someone can tell me the hole spacing across the width of a 20s and earlier license plate. I'm asking because I have an old tail light assembly that is missing the license plate bar. I measured a contemporary license plate, and I come up with 5.75" between holes. Were early license plates smaller, or more narrow?

I know zero about vintage motorcycle license plates, so thanks for any insight.

[jim d]

Pa from 14-27 had 4 holes at 12-3-6-9 o clock after that 2 holes on top 4" on center. A 15 Mass has 2 slots on the top and 2 on bot. 5" on center, plus the 12-3-6-9 o clock holes. I think that you will find the original plates all over the map in hole spacing and size. I have seen Pa. plates with less #s that we're shorter than a plate of the same year with more #s .A early Pa. is about 4 1/2 x 8, the Mass plate is 3 1/2 x 7.
Jim D.

[exeric]

That is very good information Jim, and thank you. I guess it was up to the licensee to figure out how to attach their plate. I'll bet bailing wire was an indispensable tool for mounting a plate. Thanks again, that will help me out.

[Rubone]

Eric,
Virtually every state had different dimensions, some are even oriented differently. And many vintage plates have extra, owner drilled holes in them to fit different types of brackets. Each manufacturer had their own mounting ideas as well. No uniformity among brands.
Robbie

[exeric]

Good to know Robbie. Again, it must have been a challenge to display a license plate back in the old days.

[Lonnie]

It is interesting that Harley sold a license plate trim piece that was adjustable to fit all the different State plate sizes. One-size-fits-all.