Andrew,
Early CA Masis have the letters "MC" followed by the frame size stamped below the cutout in the underside of the down tube socket of the BB shell. Above the cutout will be the serial number of the frame. Italian made GC's will have only a letter and a size stamped under the cutout. The letter is usually "M", "A", "B", "V", and occassionally an "AV" or "P" in the case of track frames. Only Italian built GC's built between 1970 and 1972 seem to have the date (month, year) stamped on the steerer of the fork. Just check the numbers under the BB and you should be able to determine Italian or CA built.
As a rule, Italian Masis command more money as collectables, but not a whole lot more. Early CA built GC's are consistantly high quality and are highly regarded by those who know frames by their merrits as opposed to by whom or where it was built. The value depends a lot on which parts are correct and original, etc. Also wheather the paint is original and what condition it's in. If the price seems fair and it's your size, it's probably a good idea to buy it while you can; especially if the paint is in VG or better condition and is original.
Hope that helps. One can never have too many Masis.....can they?
Brian Baylis
Masiville, CA
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> Hello all:
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> Thanks,
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> Andy Grout