Hey BMXer, typically if it's new enough to be a 455, on the side of the block between the oil pan and the heads, it's usually marked on the block in raised numbers "455" or "400".
But if it is perhaps a 69 block... you'll have to go by the YD code and then look at the numbers right by the Dist. Hole... there will be a set of numbers there... this will give you enough to ID the year etc...
What are you working on? I'm just up and over in Federal Way, and a member of the Western WA Firebird Club... there are lots of members that have lots of parts locally! firebirdclub.com
And were having a huge all Pontaic Show N Shine on August 18th at the Everett Mall! You can't miss that one!