New to me M1

[jasonafair]

I just got this and any input/information would be appreciated.
What I think I know - Receiver either Dec44 or Jan 45 depending what list I look at
Barrel Nov 51
Past that, I have no idea what is "correct".
I included some photos because I don't know if I'm looking at a proof mark or a bad tool mark.
Thanks for your help.

Information

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[jasonafair]

The Certificate says Service Grade so I’m presuming that’s the same.

[jasonafair]

Odd, there was a question posted above this asking about the CMP grade that is now gone. Can a poster delete their own post or did I accidentally delete it?
Additionally, what would be recommended-buying the Canfield book OR the Duff books first?

[ssgross]

your buttplate looks to be "in the white". I just received a CMP service grade with original wood. The buttplate and handgaurd rings where all in the white, and on closer look a wire wheel had been used, likely to remove any surface or other corrosion when they serviced it. I would think that the quality of finish remaining would factor into the decision on "servicablility" of parts. From the CMP description of service grade...

...Rifle wear will be exhibited by worn and mixed colors of the parkerized finish. May have pitting on the metal parts...

I guess completely bare metal could technically be considered a shade of a parkerized finish.