IDing for a Friend. 1940's? Columbia Stepthrough

[Flying Zombie]

Only numbers he could find were the Patent Numbers: 2434423 on what appears to be a gold with black outline sticker underneath.

 

[Wildcat]

There should be a serial number somewhere on the bike.

http://vintagecolumbiabikes.com/id79.html

 

[Flying Zombie]

Based on my research., Its a 53 Columbia 3 Star. He says hes been all over that frame.. I think the paint on it is a new powder-coating and hiding the original numbers, which I dont blame him for not wanting to peel up in that condition. Can anyone else confer the models similarities?