Altered Serial Number

[Pa SxS]

I got a research letter request from PGCA member Bernie Cross. His form indicates that it's a GH 12ga. with Damascus barrels, S/N 108639. The water table has the "G" S/N 108639 and the #2. The records show 108639 as a VH 12ga. with 30" Vulcan steel barrels. Bernie sent me pictures of all the S/N's that are visible. It looks to me like the xx8xxx has been altered on the water table, barrel lug, and forend. It looks like the original number was "8" and modified to be a "3". See the attached pictures.

I had Bernie lift up the trigger plate and see what was stamped in the wood. It was 103639 with a #2 which is correct. Also on the underside of the trigger guard tang is clearly 103639. My theory is that #108639 was mistakenly stamped on the water table, barrel lug, and forend upon manufacture and instead of scrapping the gun they decided to try and make the "8" look like a "3". The only other full S/N that I know of that is hidden from view is the S/N under the trigger guard tang which is correct 103639. I originally thought the engraved S/N on the tang was wrong but when I looked for examples of style, I found one in the Serialization Book and the stylized #3 matched so I believe that is the original S/N engraved on the tang.

Opinions wanted.

I'd like your opinion after looking at the pictures.