The machine was manuractured in 1951, but Singer has taken off the site that identifies machines by their serial number. I would trust the 201 owners on its identity. The 201 was Singer's premier machine. They are sought after in the Singer world, but the price is usually a little less. It depends on how bad you want it and what your needs are. If you want a solid machine that will give you no trouble, unlike a lot of' plastic' machines, then go for it. If you want a FW, this is not for you.