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Here is a link with serial number ranges and total rifles produces by each factory for each year. Like anything on the net, I can't vouch for it's total authenticity, but it's somewhere to start.
Are the XX in your serial numeric characters as well? The FR is at the start of the serial? A 6 digit numeric serial with two alpha characters starting it is odd. Where is this serial number on the rifle? Maybe it is an importer mark? Usually the Germans used 4 or 5 digit numeric serials with an alpha character at the end (ie 1234c). When they filled up a 4 or 5 digit sequence, they would go to the next alpha character available.
I don't have the rifle. Buddy in the MB Interlake ran a small gunsmithing/locksmithing/firearms/hunting business for a few years and although he is winding it down due to full time work elsewhere has retained his business license - and CFO MB did the inventory/ ledger check tour. According to their records that Mauser 98 with that serial no. was sold to him by an individual whose name he does not recognize( and Canada411 cannot provide any info on). The s/n is like no other 98 he has ever owned or had in his shop ledger while in for work. He doesn't have the rifle or any record of ever having had it and is a little nervous about how hard to push the CFO's office on this. As has been said above an alpha/alpha/###### s/n is not normal for a 98 Mauser. Thaks to all for their input/info to this Mauser neophyte - only Mauser in my lockup is a prewar Model B in 8mm that came home in an uncle's kitbag. Kayceel
What is the code on the receiver and year? (ie: byf 44). Or has that been scrubbed? Posting pics will determine if it has been renumbered or if it is original.