Marlin Model 39 Manufacture date

[Double-R]

I have a Model 39 with the Serial Number 1494 stamped on the lower side of the reciever perpendicular to the barrel just behind the foregrip. According to FineOldGuns.com the manufature date is 1863, Odd considering the model 39 wasn't produced untill 1922. Can anyone help me with a better idea of actual manufacture date?

[chrifle]

The model 39 was introduced in 1922, and did not carry a prefix. The S prefix likely was first used in the 1925-26 era, based on serial number ranges for the non and S prefixed rifles. The HS prefix was used beginning in 1932, until the introduction of the model 39A in 1939. Use only standard or target velocity ammunition in your model 39! You will crack the bolt with high speed ammunition (the change in 1932 of the bolt allowed high speed ammunition to be used, hence the "HS" serial code designation). The known range of non prefix serial codes was 1002 -12959 at the time Brophy published his book; this would place yours as a "first year" rifle of 1922.

[Double-R]

Thank you "chrifle" for the information, both on the date and the bolt.