Help with Numbered Bowie

[Geoff Ward]

Hello All,
I may be able to pick up this Bowie if the price gets right.The odd thing is, that has a white painted three digit number on the pommel area???
I have never encountered this before.The owner claims it was the date of issue or the arrival "In Country.." Vietnam or Cambodia? I have no Idea,as I have never seen this before! any thoughts or opinions would be Greatly appreciated!! I would want to be sure I was buying the "Piece" NOT "The Story"

Any Ideas would be helpful!

Regards,Geoff

[Geoff Ward]

pics

[Anderson]

If authentic early Collins #18, highly collectable. The design dates back to 1934. Painted number could be an accountability number, or inventory number for a collection.