1976 Illinois Bicentennial License Plate

This is a vintage 1976 Illinois passenger vehicle license plate, issued to commemorate the United States Bicentennial. The plate is constructed of embossed aluminum, featuring dark blue raised numbering (910 381) against a white reflective background. The design is highly distinctive, flanked by vertical red stripes containing white stars and the patriotic dates '1776' and '1976'. The state name 'ILLINOIS' and the slogan 'Land of Lincoln' are printed in white on the red borders. Structurally, the plate maintains its rectangular shape with four standard mounting slots, though it shows significant signs of age and use. Condition issues include widespread surface grime, heavy oxidation, and spotty rust/corrosion, particularly along the top edge and mounting holes. There is visible paint loss and scuffing on the embossed blue digits, and the white background has yellowed over time. This particular style was only issued in the mid-1970s, making it a desirable piece of 'automobilia' from the bicentennial era. The manufacturing reflects mid-century industrial stamping techniques typical of correctional facility production during that period.