Question about a plane blade, also a gloat.

[Patrick Beabout]

I managed to find two nice planes today. The prices were pretty good on them so I brought them home. If I checked them out right they are a Type 5 605-1/2, and a type 16 3C. My question is about the 3C. The back of the blade is stamped with 440. I have some other old planes, but have not seen this before. I tried to do some research but have not found the correct search terms yet. What does the 440 mean?

[Jeff L Miller]

I could be wrong but I remember something about that number having to do with a date. The iron for your type 16 could have been made in 1940.

Jeff

[Greg Wease]

Stanley marked the blades for the quarter of manufacturing--Q4 1940 in this case--from the late 30's through WWII.

[Paul Saffold]

Yes, those are nice looking. I've never come across a bedrock except at antique malls where the prices are usually over the top.
Paul

[Patrick Beabout]

I think I got a fair price on them. I have seen some go less, but I have passed on a lot that were marked higher. I am sure I could at least get my money back on them. I will check the same spot again for sure.