Need help with a GMC COE serial #

I just bought a GMC COE-I think it is a 1939 but the previous own claims that it is a 1937? I don't know how to decifer the "vin" code it is a model AF 354, serial I24, the serial tag says that it was built by the Yellow truck and coach company for general motors, could anyone out there help?
Thanks Corey

 

The initial 'A' means '39 to '41. GMC was funny about model years back then, it doesn't mean as much as it does to other makes.

'F' means Forward control, or COE.

'35' means 350 series, or 2-ton in the venacular.

'4' is the wheelbase and meaningless without the frame. 175 inches in this case, a pretty long truck!

'I' is probably where it was made and '24' could mean it had a 248 originally, though I'm sketchy on details when they are this old, and since you don't have those parts its of little significance.

If you need to confirm accurate information try www.OldGMCTrucks.com.

 

The actual VIN was probably the engine number that is on the machined surface next to the distriubutor. Most early GM vehicles were ***led using that number.