I keep hearing from "sellers" that the "markings" on their M17s enhance the collectability of their M17. Markings such as an engraved or sharpie number here and there.

My unskilled opinion is that these are not like arsenal rebuild marks on a USGI 1911. I can write or engrave whatever I want on my M17 with whatever I want to "enhance" it. I assume this is the case unless their is some proven provenance to back up the engraving.

In other words, the "been there done that" look does not apply here.

Compared to many of the "cleaner" examples I've seen, these would be worth less in value. Again, just my unskilled opinions here.

Love to hear some thoughts from anyone.