The Interesting Story Behind the “Jaws” License Plate

Did you know that the licence plate recovered from the shark’s mouth in Deep Blue Sea was the same licence number as the one taken out of the tiger shark’s stomach in Jaws? It was done as an homage to the much loved Steven Spielberg classic.

The licence plate, registration “007 0 981” appears to be a reference to James Bond.

Interestingly Spielberg was interested in directing a Bond film in the 1970s but was turned down not once, but twice by producer Albert “Cubby” Broccoli who told him he wasn’t good enough.

It’s believed that the licence plate is a nod to the Bond film, Live and Let Die (1973). It would make sense since the dates on the plate are 73 and 74 (the years Live and Let Die was produced and released).

Also, the licence plate is from Louisiana where a lot of the Bond movie starring Roger Moore was filmed, and features the state’s slogan, “Sportsman's Paradise” (spelt with an “E” on the plate) which can be clearly seen in the movie on a billboard that Sheriff J.W. Pepper hides behind.

My wife bought me a replica of this licence plate for Christmas, along with the Ecto 1 plate from Ghostbusters. I also have the ones from the Delorean in Back to the Future and Back to the Future Part II.

I’m hoping I get my man shed at some point (or at least a hobby room) where I can display them in all their glory. 🙌