i suppose if the frame has some unique identifying painted frame darts (like they used on bf goodrich badged bikes, for example) that might give a hint to the 'just right' one- otherwise i don't think there's any way to really know what distributor/retailer badge was on it in 1941...(?)
'planes and trains' was pretty popular, and are often reasonably priced.
'american flyer' from louisville cycle supply used to be a dime a dozen, but i haven't seen many lately...
'excelsior' is popular with the klunker crowd and i think that keeps the price a bit higher.
'ace' is just plain cool- they bring a pretty penny.
'mission' and 'american beauty' seem rare and can be very expensive....
i guess you 'pays your money and makes your choice.'
:wink: