M73B1 Scope (type 2b) Roll-Stamped Serial Number

[Troglodyte]

Has anybody seen an M73B1 scope with a roll-stamped serial number, in the same font and size as the words "serial number"?

The data plate and adjustment knobs for a scope I may buy are those of a Type 2b, and the serial number is correct for the type, but I've seen the serial numbers electro-penciled both before and after this serial number (21xxx). The rest of the scope appears identical to other type 2b scopes.

An internet search yielded only a single text description from an auction house of another roll-stamped example (23381).

I'm inclined to believe it's legit--why fake something by making it DIFFERENT from most known examples? It could drive potential buyers to ask knowledgeable folks on internet forums about the item's authenticity!

Why would these have been marked in a different manner from the others I've seen?

---------- Post added at 02:18 PM ---------- Previous post was at 02:13 PM ----------

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[speckles]

Is it me, or does it look like the screwed on data plate appears different age/patina/wear than the rest of the scope. get a really good close look at those plate retaining screws before you purchase that--have they been boogered with?. Not saying it is fake but the question in my mind is how easy is it to change the data plate?

[Troglodyte]

Possibly. The tube is said to be coated in some sort of non-corrosive paint, possibly something the USMC used out of Navy stores. I haven't been able to find much online about that stuff, either.