Maybe the press operator didn't know 3 digit code #'s existed a couple of years ago when he punched that mint , no patina , nos reproduction plate. At least he etch a sketched the mint nos
tape like a seal a meal.
Notice the rust stains on the book and not a flaw on the plate. .....

I looked at all my 70 & Up POP's.....8 of them,,,they all have 3 Digit codes.

Here is a 70 L78 POP off Dale's site which has 2 digit codes. It looks like he has edited some information for privacy reasons.

I've known the seller for a long time, Tom is a very fair guy and has never steered me wrong. I sold one of his cars to Reggie Jackson a few years back (a Scott Tiemann restored 65 GTO), he'll work with you. He's an honest guy, he'll encourage you to have the car inspected and won't be hiding anything. I believe he bought the car from a friend that was having some money issues. Tom isn't making a dime on this car.

Regardless of the car's authenticity - it's a nice car that runs and drives incredibly well. I think the only change from assy build is the interior color change to black (from Parchment). If I know Tom, he'll work with you on the asking price.

My .02 (which is worth exactly that...haha)