I doubt the serial number has anything to do with a date. Serial numbers simply didn't mean much in the era prior to WWII, and I expect that should the gun be dismantled, only the last two or three numbers of the total serial number would appear on the action parts, screws, etc.
Do let us know how it works out for you. It seems a pity your Father never pressed it into service after dragging all the way home, but, perhaps hunting and killing were not his forté.
I'm sorry for the loss of your Father. My Father's passing taught me how few hunting partners I really had, and how few I needed when he was with me.
Best,
Ted
