I picked up a 1945 Lithgowicon receiver. it is not serialized. It is marked

MA
Lithgow
SMLE III*
1945

I was told that it may not have been built into a rifle so it was not serialized. That it was possibly and armorers replacement part that did not get used. The finish appears to be a parkerized finish and appears to be original. Does this sound correct? Also there are a number of stars with a number below them on the back right hand side of the receiver. What do these indicate?

Thank you for your time.
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