Update: The DOT investigators came for the title/registration check today. I invited them in and showed them some posts from earlier forums. I found a posting from Feb. 8, 2012 that had this same topic and photos of half-a-dozen pictures of 1946 to 1948 VIN tags showing the same screws that my car has. I also offered to call the technical advisor with them. They told me that they didn't need to talk to the advisor/historian, they were convinced. They went out to photograph and check the car for any obvious tampering evidence. They checked the numbers in their super secret files for stolen or wanted status, smiled and said, "No wrecker today, she checks out good." One more step closer! Now the file goes back to the admin DOT lady, who sends me a letter of value (hold on to your pants). I buy an insurance bond for $100 per year for three years, while it's registered, and then reverts back to a regular title. Things are seeming to get better! As a bonus, the nice DOT inspector left his high priced, State of Iowa flashlight on the fender. What a good day!