1947–1950 Harley-Davidson Paint Colors & Tank Emblems
1947–1950 Harley-Davidson paint colors and tank emblems changed year to year, and matching them correctly is essential for authentic restorations and accurate identification. For collectors, restorers, and anyone trying to build a factory-correct motorcycle, finish details are a key part of getting the year right.
The first step is determining the correct production year of your motorcycle. Harley-Davidson VIN numbers provide that information and serve as the foundation for verifying paint, emblems, and other year-specific details. This guide covers factory tank emblems and paint color combinations used from 1947 through 1950, spanning the final Knucklehead year and the first years of the Panhead era.
If you have not yet decoded your VIN to determine the correct year, start with the Harley VIN Decoder, then use the year links below to move directly into the correct paint reference section.
Quick Navigation
Years:
1947 |
1948 |
1949 |
1950
Resources:
Harley VIN Decoder |
Model Reference 1903–1969
Use the VIN first, then verify the finish. The stamped Harley-Davidson VIN identifies the production year and model family, but it does not encode the exact paint combination, tank emblem, or striping details. Use the VIN Decoder to confirm the year, then use the sections below to verify the correct factory finish.
1947–1950 Harley-Davidson Tank Emblems
1947 Harley-Davidson Paint Colors
Quick Links: 1947 Knucklehead Model Reference
Skyway Blue
Flight Red
Brilliant Black
Police Silver (Police use only)
Olive Green (Export only)
1948 Harley-Davidson Paint Colors
Quick Links: 1948 Panhead Model Reference
Azure Blue
Flight Red
Brilliant Black
Police Silver (Police use only)
1949 Harley-Davidson Paint Colors
Quick Links: 1949 Panhead Model Reference
Burgundy
Peacock Blue
Brilliant Black
Police Silver (Police use only)
Metallic Congo Green
1950 Harley-Davidson Paint Colors
Quick Links: 1950 Panhead Model Reference
Brilliant Black
Ruby Red
Riviera Blue
Police Silver (Police use only)
Metallic Green
Flight Red
Azure Blue
White
Frequently Asked Questions
What 1947–1950 Harley-Davidson paint colors were available?
This page documents the factory paint combinations shown in Riding Vintage’s reference material for 1947, 1948, 1949, and 1950 Harley-Davidson motorcycles.
Did 1947–1950 Harley-Davidson tank emblems use a red background?
Yes. According to the reference note on this page, all 1947 through 1950 tank emblems used a red background rather than the black background often seen on reproductions.
How do I verify the correct 1947–1950 Harley-Davidson paint year?
Start with the Harley VIN Decoder to confirm the production year, then compare that year to the paint combinations shown on this page.
Can a Harley-Davidson VIN tell me the exact 1947–1950 paint color?
No. The stamped VIN identifies the production year and model family, but factory paint colors, striping, and tank emblems must be confirmed through year-based paint reference pages like this one.
Next Step: Continue using the Harley VIN Decoder and Model Reference pages for full year-by-year restoration details.