J.C.Higgins model 42

[w18764560]

I just bought a JCH Model 42..(Marlin 80), it has no serial # anywhere on the rifle, it appears in very fine condition...I think this must be quite old as there is no serial #...I have stripped it down completely...NFA was the first Control Act I think...am I right to assume that Marlin made these under contract to Sears and Roebuck, who in turn called the line J.C. Higgins?
As it reads on left side of barrel:
<> J.C.Higgins <> (with diamond stamps, and name in cursive)
under that line reads:
22 cal. s.l.&lr. MOD.42
Under that line:
103, 19790
Under that line:
SEARS, ROEBUCK AND CO.
I am just trying to narrow down a year of manufacture...I would say with my limited knowledge of Marlin, that this would be a '30-'39 or pre WWII rifle?
Thanks in advance,
Steve R