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Is Your Corvette Really Numbers Matching?
Independent authentication of engine stampings, trim tags, and factory documentation for 1963–1972 Corvettes.
Combining decades of Corvette expertise with advanced forensic analysis to help buyers, sellers, and collectors make informed decisions with confidence.
30+ years of Corvette research · AI-assisted forensic analysis
What We Validate
Every detail matters when it comes to Corvette authenticity. From engine stampings and trim tags to original factory documentation, we examine the details that help establish a Corvette's originality, history, and value.
Engine Stamping
Compare stamp details with factory references to assess originality or restamping. Includes an AI forensic analysis report.
Trim Tag & VIN Tag
Evaluate tag lettering, layout, and production details against original references to assess factory originality.
Factory Documentation
Review window stickers, tank stickers, and other factory paperwork for printing, format, and production consistency.
Also available: pre-purchase inspection, concierge help selling your car, and help finding a Corvette with specific options.
Our Story
Why we started Corvette Validation Services.
I'm Jonathan Herrick. I've collected and researched early Corvettes since the early 1990s, building an extensive reference library of original engine stampings, trim tags, and factory documentation. I also own the 1967–1969 Corvette L89 Registry and the 1967–1969 Corvette L88 Registry.
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Corvette Validation Services grew out of three questions I faced while buying a 1969 L71: was the engine stamping factory original or a restamp? Did it have the original trim tag? Was the paperwork real? That experience shaped the careful, evidence-based review we offer collectors today.
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Our process combines hands-on Corvette knowledge with AI-assisted forensic analysis. We compare fonts, character shapes, spacing, stamp placement, and surface details against known original examples, including cars near your VIN when available. Technology supports the review; the conclusions depend on the evidence.​
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On 1963–1971 Corvettes, the VIN doesn't tell you which engine the car left the factory with. In 1972, GM added a letter to the VIN to designate the engine option for cars built at the St. Louis plant. Before that, the door was open to fraud. With prices rising on C2s and early C3s, online auctions advertising "numbers matching" (which means nothing), and plenty of people making fake trim tags and paperwork, it's more important than ever to do your homework and find out what's real.
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Whether you're buying your first chrome bumper car, selling a car with Mecum or Bring A Trailer, or researching a midyear Corvette you already own, we'll help you understand what the available evidence supports.
How it works
Clear steps. Careful analysis.
1. Tell us about the car
Send the year, the services you want, and any details using the form below.
2. Share clear photos
After we confirm scope and pricing, send clear, high resolution photos of your stamp pad, tags, and documents.
3. We analyze the evidence
We compare your stamps, tags, and paperwork with original references using Corvette expertise and AI -Assisted forensic analysis.
