Model 99 Serial Number

Hello,

I'm considering buying a 1957, Model 99. The bike looks like an unmolested original. The engine serial number is correct for a 1957 Model 99: the serial number is within the range, plus the "14" and "M" are there. The problem is that there are no numbers on the frame in the standard location for a featherbed. The frame gusset aft of the primary case is totally blank, and there is no indication that it has been altered.

I've never seen a featherbed frame without a serial number in the standard location. Does anybody know if some wide-line frames had the serial number in a different location, or no serial number at all?

My 1957 88 has the “122” and 5 digit serial number beginning “7” in the usual place although two of the digits are faint, but no year letter is visible.
It is quite possible that, in the last 69 years, someone has rubbed it flat or filled it in to get a nice smooth finish.
If there really is nothing there, all you need is a set of stamps (of the correct size and font) and big hammer to put the serial number back on. Don’t make it perfect because the originals never were.