The five cars I mentioned were the first five started. I am not sure why the Shelby completion date is important, I must be missing that? Especially in light of the fact Smith did not practice strict inventory controls like first in / first out.
I am aware of the strike. All 1968 Shelbys were built after the strike ended by AO Smith, with the exception of those first five cars. So therefore the strike had very little impact on 1968 Shelby production.
I would disagree with “built” in batches. Ordered in batches ...yes. The build sheet groupings I have seen indicate the Shelbys were randomly interspersed with Mustangs.
Bob, I dont think your theory is out of line, but I would need more evidence. I think the fact the numbers appear more random and not coordinated with Ford VINs would seem to indicate it was a Smith assignment.