Description

This is a set of license plates from the 1977 Inauguration of President Jimmy Carter. They were originally issued to an official White House photographer.

Inauguration plates were first issued in 1933 during President Franklin Roosevelt’s term in office. The plates have been issued ever since, except 1945, when the inauguration celebration was deemphasized because of the war and a metal shortage.

During the early years, only officials and VIPs were issued the plates. They were used to identify vehicles taking part in inaugural ceremonies. Over the years, the plates have been valid for use for several weeks to several months, depending on the year issued. Less than 1000 were distributed in each early inauguration.

After 1941, the item was produced in larger quantities, providing an opportunity for the public to obtain a souvenir. Money was also raised from the sales of the commemorative licenses. The lower numbered plates were still reserved for dignitaries, with #1 reserved for the President, and #2 held for the Vice-President. In more recent years, multiple plates have been issued during inauguration celebrations.