Hi Guys
Now I am complety confused.
Robert, you are most probably correct as I can not find any details anywhere suggesting a serial number was stamped on the draw bar. The numbers do look like they were put on using a punch.
Mike. I have cleaned up the plate and I can just make out some numbers. (See attached photo). At first I thought it was "1712" but then it could be "JT12" it is hard to see, you wouldn't believe it there is a dent right in the corner where the number is stamped.
Ryan. You are right mate it's bloody hard to please everyone. I put painting it pink with flowers to my wife and she said that was a good idea, I could then put it in the garden and she would use it as a planter and plant daisys and bulbs in it. I said "Over my dead body".. I think I will keep the colour I paint it a secret for the time being.
Cheers
Tony