So I bought this rifle about 2 years ago from one of my grandfathers old time war buddies. I have tried to do some research about with with not much luck. Even ask around at a few local gun shops and basically got the same answer. Which was that it isn't that easy to determine production years on older models.
So I figured I would try my luck here. So any information on the approximate production year would be greatly appreciated. Also just a ball park value of this rifle.
I don't intend on selling it just curious, pretty sure I came out good in the end for what was included and what I paid for it.

I only gave $140 for the rifle with the JC Higgins scope, two magazines and about 90 rounds.
Also maybe you guys could help me out on the ammo also.
I have 25 rounds of what I believe could be Lake City 30-06 (Marked LC69)
Also some older rounds with the bulge(round)primers which I know are older for sure.
And some Silver Tip ammo which I don't know anything about.

As always here are the pictures for everything, thanks for any information.