I have a flathead v8 59 block with c2982 stamped above the 59. Trying to nail down the year if anyone can help
There is no way of knowing. The “59” blocks were made from 45 through 48, but no way of narrowing down based on other casting numbers.
The one thing you could do is to measure the bore. After the war, Ford cast replacement blocks for the 221 ci engines that were also marked "59". There are some out there, so it might be a good idea to make sure of exactly what you have. The number stamped above the "59" is probably a rebuilder's mark, so it's probably been around the block at least once. In any event, the bores should be sonic tested.