Motor Fuel Ration Books: What's The Value?

how much is a motor fuel ration book worth

Motor fuel ration books were issued in Britain following the Suez Crisis, when petrol was rationed between December 1956 and May 1957. These books contain coupons for units of motor fuel (petrol) and can be found for sale online, with prices ranging from £6.00 to £7.50. The value of these books may vary depending on their condition and rarity, with some books being described as excellent examples and being offered with free worldwide delivery.

Characteristics Values
Issuing Country Britain
Issuing Ministry Ministry of Power
Issuing Date 1957, 1973
Validity Period 6 months
Vehicle Type Motor car (including tricycle)
Vehicle Engine Capacity Not exceeding 1100cc/1-9HP, 2201cc and over, 20HP and over
Unit of Measurement "N" units, "L" units
Number of Units 24 "N" units, 12 "L" units
Condition Complete, unused, good
Price £6-£7.5

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Motor Fuel Ration Book value depends on its condition

The value of a Motor Fuel Ration Book depends on its condition. For example, an unused Motor Fuel Ration Book from the 1970s in very good condition with no missing pages can be considered a collector's item and may be priced higher. On the other hand, a Motor Fuel Ration Book from 1957 with part of its front cover and first coupon missing is likely to be of lesser value to collectors.

The specific details and condition of the Motor Fuel Ration Book play a crucial role in determining its worth. Factors such as the year of issue, the type of vehicle it applies to, and the number of coupons included can all influence its value. For instance, a Motor Fuel Ration Book with a higher number of coupons or a lower vehicle engine capacity threshold may be more desirable to collectors and command a higher price.

The rarity of the Motor Fuel Ration Book is another aspect that can affect its value. Ration books from specific years or with unique features may be scarcer, making them more valuable to collectors. Condition also plays a part in rarity, as completely unused and well-preserved ration books are likely to be rarer and thus more expensive.

The format and presentation of the Motor Fuel Ration Book can also impact its worth. A book with an interesting design, unique serial number, or unusual features, such as additional notes or markings, may appeal to collectors and fetch a higher price.

Additionally, the seller's location and method of sale can influence the value of a Motor Fuel Ration Book. Online marketplaces, such as eBay and Etsy, often provide a wide range of prices, with some sellers offering free worldwide shipping, which can affect the overall cost.

In summary, the value of a Motor Fuel Ration Book depends on a combination of factors, including its condition, rarity, vehicle type, coupon quantity, and presentation. These aspects collectively contribute to its appeal to collectors and enthusiasts, ultimately determining its market value.

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Rationing in Britain

Ration books are symbolic of daily life in Britain during World War II. Rationing began in 1939 when Britain imported 55 million tonnes of food annually from around the world. When German submarines targeted supply ships, there was panic and a real fear that Britain would run out of food. Rationing was implemented to prevent food hoarding, soaring prices, and starvation.

The British government conducted a top-secret research project with volunteers in Yorkshire to test the impact of a strictly rationed diet. The volunteers reported feeling energetic and healthy, which reassured the government that people could remain healthy despite food shortages. Rationing was in effect until the early 1950s, with meat being the last item to be derationed in 1954, nine years after the war ended. Britain was the last country involved in the war to stop rationing food. The continuation of rationing after the war may have been due to the withdrawal of financial support from America, which impacted Britain's ability to import food. Additionally, there was a sentiment that spare food should be directed to people in Europe who were facing starvation and displacement due to the war.

Motor fuel ration books were issued in Britain following the Suez Crisis in 1956, which resulted in limited access to fuel and oil. Petrol was rationed between December 1956 and May 1957. These vintage motor fuel ration books are now collectables, with some being sold on eBay UK for £6-£7.50.

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Ration book coupons

Ration books were issued in Britain following the Suez Crisis when petrol was rationed between December 1956 and May 1957. These books contain coupons for units of motor fuel (petrol). The value of these coupons varies, with some books containing 24 "N" units and 12 "L" units for a six-month period.

The price of a motor fuel ration book varies depending on its condition and rarity. Complete and unused ration books from the 1970s in very good condition can be found for sale online for a higher price. Partially complete books with some coupons missing may be less expensive.

For example, a Motor Fuel Ration Book for a motor car (including tricycle) with 24 "N" units and 12 "L" units for a six-month period in 1973 is available for £7.50 new on eBay UK. Another Motor Fuel Ration Book from the 1970s in very good condition with all coupons present is sold for a higher price of £12.00 on Etsy.

The price of a motor fuel ration book can also depend on its historical significance and the demand from collectors. Ration books from specific years or with unique features may be more valuable to collectors and command a higher price. Additionally, the availability and rarity of the book can influence its price, with rarer books potentially being more expensive.

It is worth noting that the prices mentioned above are just examples, and the actual prices may vary depending on various factors, including the seller, the platform, and the current market demand.

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Ration book serial numbers

Ration books with serial numbers from the 1950s and 1970s can be found for sale online. These serial numbers vary, with some including letters and numbers and others being purely numerical.

For example, a Motor Fuel Ration Book from 1957, issued following the Suez Crisis, has a serial number that includes letters and numbers: LH 888417. This book contains coupons for units of motor fuel (petrol) and was for a car (including a tricycle) not exceeding 1100cc/1-9HP. It provided 24 "N" units and 12 "L" units for a six-month period.

Another example is a Motor Fuel Ration Book from the 1970s with the serial number OH 716206. This book is for a motor car (including a tricycle) with an engine size of 2201cc and over, and 20 HP and over. It is in excellent condition and is unused.

The value of these ration books depends on their condition and rarity. Some sellers offer them for as little as £6.00 or £7.50, while others may charge more for books in better condition or with unique features, such as additional writings or specific car associations.

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Ration books on eBay

Ration books are available on eBay UK as collectable historical memorabilia. Prices for ration books on eBay vary, with some new books costing £6 or £7.50. There are also coupon codes available for discounts on certain items, although these are not valid for items in the "Property", "Cars, Motorcycles & Vehicles", "Coins, Banknotes & Bullion", and some other categories. The maximum discount available is £2.

To use a coupon, simply enter the communicated code during the payment process. This will discount the final amount of your purchase price, excluding postage and packing costs or taxes. The coupon is redeemable 25 times per user and is valid for eBay UK registered users who are UK residents over the age of 18, with a UK shipping address.

Frequently asked questions

The value of a motor fuel ration book depends on various factors, including its age, rarity, and condition. Here are some examples of prices:

- A vintage and complete motor fuel ration book from the 1970s in very good condition is priced at £12.99 on Etsy.

- Motor fuel ration books are listed on eBay UK with prices ranging from £6.00 to £7.50.

The value of a motor fuel ration book can be influenced by several factors, including:

- Age: Older ration books, especially those from significant historical periods, may be more valuable to collectors.

- Rarity: Rarer or more difficult to find ration books may command a higher price.

- Condition: A complete and well-preserved ration book is likely to be worth more than one that is damaged or incomplete.

- Historical significance: Ration books from notable historical events or periods, such as wars or fuel crises, may have increased value due to their cultural or historical importance.

No, the value of motor fuel ration books from the same period can vary. Factors such as condition, rarity, and the specific details or features of the ration book can influence its value. For example, a ration book with unique markings or an interesting history may be more valuable to a collector.

Yes, motor fuel ration books are considered collectibles, particularly those that are vintage or historical. They are often sought after by collectors interested in transportation, automotive, or historical memorabilia. These books represent a significant part of a country's history and the development of fuel consumption and transportation.

Motor fuel ration books can be bought and sold through various online marketplaces and auction websites, such as eBay, Etsy, and specialist collectible platforms. These platforms provide a convenient way to connect with other collectors or individuals interested in buying or selling motor fuel ration books. It is essential to research the seller's or buyer's reputation and ensure the authenticity of the item before finalizing any transactions.

It is worth noting that the values and prices of motor fuel ration books can vary over time and across different markets, so it is always a good idea to research the current market trends and consult with experts or appraisers for a more accurate valuation.

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