In the realm of exclusive acquisitions, a unique opportunity is knocking for UK residents and James Bond enthusiasts alike. The legendary ‘AU 1’ number plate, famously adorning the gold-coated Rolls-Royce Phantom III in the classic 1964 film Goldfinger, is now on the market courtesy of Primo Registrations.

Before you dive into your 007 fantasies, brace yourself for the price tag – pre-auction estimates soar beyond £300,000. Yes, it’s a substantial sum, but what you receive in return is a piece of Hollywood history and a number plate that goes beyond mere characters on metal.

The allure lies not only in owning a bona-fide Hollywood classic but also in the symbolism of the ‘AU’ letters. As any chemistry buff would tell you, ‘AU’ is the elemental symbol for gold on the periodic table, adding an extra layer of prestige to this already iconic plate.

Peter Johnson, the Managing Director of Primo Registrations, remarked, “As iconic number plates go, this one has to be right up there with one of the best, not least of all because of the plate’s association with the famed car used by Goldfinger and Oddjob to smuggle gold out of the country!”

He shared a tantalizing tidbit of history: “The last time ‘AU 1’ sold, it realised a huge return on investment for its then-owner, and we anticipate the trend will only continue, especially with shorter plates.”

For perspective, similar two-letter, single-digit plates typically change hands for amounts ranging from £100,000 to £500,000. To set the bar, the UK’s most expensive plate, ‘25 O,’ fetched an astounding £518,480 in 2014, proudly adorning a Ferrari 250 GTO – a fittingly luxurious match.

Primo Registrations ensures transparency, confirming that VAT is seamlessly included in the total price, along with the somewhat amusing transfer fee. Will the sale of ‘AU 1’ set a new record in the world of exclusive acquisitions? Or will it find itself adorning the front of a gold-plated Aventador, seamlessly blending into the opulent landscape of luxury vehicles? The answer awaits the touch of a lucky buyer and the dawn of a new chapter in the life of this iconic number plate.