Mustang, Welcome home; Welcome to the forum and thank you for being willing to serve our country.
From what you've posted, I think you have a very nice collectable Luger. Please post some overall pictures when you get a chance.
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The suffix is a "r", making your serial number "6553r". A complete unique description would include it's identification as a 1941 "byf" code Mauser Luger, s/n 6553r. The number and suffix can be duplicated over the years of Luger manufacture.
I'd like to see a closeup of this frame serial number and suffix if possible.
As Doug mentions, except for an early period (1937-8, I believe) the side plate internal number is the first two digits plus one.
On Lugers in that early period, the side plate inside number is the same as the first two digits.
I don't have my reference book with me to verify the exact period and serial range.
Marc
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 Igitur si vis pacem, para bellum -
- Therefore if you want peace, prepare for war.
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