'68 RS Convert - What is this engine code??

[Hans L]

Saw this '68 RS Convert on Barnfinds.   It's also listed on Craigslist in Texas.    While much is wrong or overstated/incorrect with the car, I can't figure out this engine stamp suffix - the M1 or MI.  Is the partial VIN a re-stamp, or what is going on here?    I can't find that M1 suffix code anywhere (I checked CRG, Colvin, etc).

I've called the owner and he read the VIN # and it's ...8N448565 which appears to match the partial VIN on the engine pad (assuming what appears to be a 0 is really a 6 - which if you blow up the image, it does appear to be a 6).   But what is the suffix M1?

https://barnfinds.com/unrestored-survivor-1968-camaro-rs-convertible/

[KurtS]

Really hard to tell. It could be a rare TH350 trans test car, but everything has be changed.
Car has been restored - look at the springs and calipers and tie rods. Painted subframe and axle and rear springs. Engine and trans have been out - no paint on the oil pan. Firewall has been painted. Hood and hood springs too.
The Muncie clearly isn't original and I think the 12 bolt was added. The BX tire pressure label indicates it wasn't an SS.
 

[Hans L]

Thanks Kurt.   So do you think the engine stamps are legit? 

Agree much of the car has been changed or restored - even the quarter panels were replaced at some time.

[bcmiller]

Hardly a barn find.  Restored in the 80s most likely.

[KurtS]

Not a great picture, but it looks reasonable.

[Hans L]

Not a great picture, but it looks reasonable.

Thanks again Kurt.  I've asked the current owner if he can contact the prior owner to retrieve whatever paper work they may have.  The prior owner has claimed he has more documentation....we'll see if any more revealing comes about. 

[arocars]

There's a lot of fluff in that ad. It all goes sideways for me when the seller says, "I was told ..." Based on the description and the photos; it's not a survivor, all-original, unrestored, unmolested, non cut-up, or rust-free. I doubt its got a 50 year old roof on it either. It is however, a decent looking 68 convertible.