The car license plate auction, which took place on January 11, 2024, turned out to be quite surprising. There was only one plate that fetched a tremendous amount of money, while the remaining plates were sold at much lower prices, with some even selling at the minimum floor price.
However, amidst the lack of high-priced special plates, the plate with the number 30K-777.77 stole the spotlight. Considered extremely beautiful, this plate attracted the attention of a wealthy businessman who bid a whopping 9.365 billion Vietnamese dong for it, making it the highlight of the event.
According to the auction rules, the winning bidder of the plate 30K-777.77 must pay the full amount within 15 days of the announcement. This payment will be deducted from the initial deposit of 40 million dong, but it does not include the vehicle registration fee.
Furthermore, the winner of the license plate auction is required to register this special plate for a car within 12 months. Failure to complete the registration within the specified period will result in the transfer of the plate to the registration and vehicle management system. In such cases, the winning bidder will not be refunded the amount paid for the winning bid.
The special plate “30K-777.77” holds various significances depending on different interpretations. Some believe that the number 7 is traditionally associated with loss and misfortune, making the plate less desirable. Other numbers like 6, 8, and 9 are considered lucky and bring wealth and longevity. However, these numbers lose their positive connotations when combined with 7. For example, the combination 78 is associated with the loss of wealth, 76 with the loss of luck, and 79 represents both great wealth and the loss of longevity. Additionally, the number 7 coincides with the 7th month in the lunar calendar, known as the “Ghost Month” in Vietnamese culture, which is associated with taboos and unfavorable business activities.
Nevertheless, in Buddhism, the number 7 holds great significance and symbolizes family values. The Vu Lan festival, which takes place on the 15th day of the 7th lunar month, is celebrated to honor and show gratitude to parents.
Moreover, the combination “30K-777.77” also represents the five elements, which are believed to be the fundamental forces governing the universe. Traditional Vietnamese medicine applies the theory of the five elements in treating illnesses and promoting longevity. Therefore, the aesthetic value of the special license plate “30K-777.77” ultimately relies on individual interpretation and beliefs.
Auctioning car license plates isn’t just about making money.
On the afternoon of October 11th, following discussions, the National Assembly Standing Committee reached an agreement to submit a Draft Resolution on piloting the granting of the right to choose automobile license plates through auctions to the National Assembly, with the aim of granting more authority to the Government.
