One of the ongoing CRG research topics for 1969 is to identify when the early style 2 piece kick panel (removable screen, one screw at the bottom) was replaced with the later style 1 piece version. Current thinking is perhaps sometime in January 1969.
From the CRG Research Topic List for 1969:
1969 Topics
We would like to better define when the following changes occurred:
1
.
.
.
7 Phase-in of the 1-piece 1969 kick-panels (January?).
My '69 RS, VIN 124379N581767; 01C Build has the early style, 2 piece kick panel. See pictures below. Based on the VIN number sequencing, my car was built somewhere (+/- 2 days) around the 19th of the month.
Those of you that are '69 owners, please check and see which version of the kick panel is in your car.
Regards,
Richard