Thank you sir, it's the 26" barrel and the location of the 'SAVAGE 1899 MODEL' on the front receiver ring, as opposed to being stamped on the barrel that's confusing me. I was using the chart at savage99.com for reference.
To quote;

Info on 1899's*:
Note: "Model 1899" marked on barrel.
and;

Info on early 99's*:
Note: "Model 99" marked on the top of the frame ring. Some "transition" models have "Model 1899" marked on the top of the frame ring.

I also noted this; *Keep in mind, never say always! wink

I'm kind of new to 1899s' & 99s' and trying to educate myself (with some degree of accuracy).
Thanks again sir.