Regarding the number of hidden vins...I still only say maybe. But what I struggle with most on that claim is the HUGE and constantly growing number of the general public and resto shops who have torn these vehicles all the way down to every last spot weld...with great care and effort at documenting and duplicating every factory made mark. Why haven't we/they run across them at some point and photod/asked about/duplicated them during concourse restos? Also my career has taken me thru several NICB (National Insurance Crime Bureau) stolen vehicle investigative classes alongside police officers, covering typical "hidden" or extra vin locations, etc...they vary so much. Today's vehicles have a vin sticker on almost every single panel. But not back in the 60's. And the stamped ones are usually not all that "hidden" because a police officer/investigator isn't gonna drill out spot welds or pull out a drivetrain just to find a vin.

They might be 100% right. I just feel I have good reason to question it, particularly on vintage cars.

I agree 100% this process MUST start with the DMV, and I wouldn't buy this shell without full understanding of the state's process and current title status of the shell.