Have you hoped for a new way to display your Maine pride right on your license plate? Soon you’ll have one.

Secretary of State Matthew Dunlap will unveil the Maine Bicentennial Commemorative License Plate on Monday, Dec. 4, to celebrate 200 years of statehood in 2020.

The design depicts the radiant, five-pointed star and Dirigo banner from the Maine State Seal set against a dark blue background to match the State of Maine flag.

The Office of the Secretary of State designed the license plate, which also features the years ‘1820’ and ‘2020’ on the left and right sides of the star.

This is the first keepsake item to be offered as part of the bicentennial, which Dunlap said is an ideal time to celebrate Maine’s history and culture.

“The radiant star and ‘Dirigo’ motto from our state seal capture the core of our identity, highlighting our tradition in leadership and our bright future,” Dunlap said.

Plates can be purchased as early as Dec. 4 for $25, most of which is designated to accrue to the Maine State Cultural Affairs Council for its bicentennial initiative.

The plates can be displayed on motor vehicles from Jan. 1, 2018, through Dec. 31, 2020. They can only be used for the front plate.

Motorists are advised to store their front license plate in the car during the commemorative plate display period.

Plates can also be purchased as wall-hangers or displayed in the rear window of a vehicle.

Anyone can purchase a plate, online or in person at the Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles main office or the 13 branch offices across the state.

The Maine Bicentennial Commission is taking shape and will soon begin planning for statewide commemoration events.

Representatives of the Maine State Cultural Affairs Council will join Dunlap at the event in the Cultural Building, 230 State St. in Augusta at 10 a.m. on Dec 4.

The Council includes the Maine Arts Commission, the Maine Historic Preservation Commission, the Maine Library Commission, the Maine State Museum Commission, the Maine Humanities Council, the Maine Historical Society and the Maine State Archives.