Originally Posted by
bluesteak
I have a 52 sports with a BE serial number. 56 sounds about right for a DL serial. The front hub should be dated also.
There is a website to match serial numbers to the year.
For a time, Raleigh used the letters to indicate either production facility or market. The Sports models of the 50's and 60's used RC, RA and RB for Canada, USA and the UK respectively. Maybe this was also true for DL's.
I'm thinking it's a '61 based on serial number and condition. Also, check the cantle plate under the Brooks saddle for a date stamp.