Introduced alongside the Proton Putra (a 2-door sports coupe) in 1996. Proton offered PUTRA 1-9999 to Putra buyers to enhance the model’s sporty appeal. Only a couple of thousand Proton Putras were ever made (it was a niche model), so many PUTRA plate numbers went unused. The ones that did sell often matched the car’s chassis or special dates. A notable sight was PUTRA 1337 on a modified Putra, popular among enthusiasts. By early 2000s, unsold PUTRA plates were quietly shelved. Surviving Proton Putras (which themselves are rare now) frequently carry these plates, as owners cherish the matching name. A few PUTRA plates also found their way to other vehicles over time, used by those who liked the patriotic “Putra” (meaning prince) connotation. With Proton no longer issuing model plates, PUTRA stands as a memento of the era. It’s a subtle treasure for the handful of Proton Putra collectors, symbolizing the “prince” of Proton’s lineup in the ’90s. Key Facts: Issue Date: 1996 Issuance Range: 1 - 9999 Rarity: Limited (up to 9,999, but low uptake; rare today) Transfer Rules: Originally for Proton Putra owners