That is exactly what I'm talking/wondering about 1Gunner!! Luckily I'm learning about this lesson on a $1000 engine and not a $5,000+ engine. So buyers be aware if your purchasing a "NEW" engine as it could cost you later when you decide to sell/upgrade a few years down the road.
No you are not making a big deal out of nothing!
On my motor which I was told was a 2012 when I bought it privately, but is actually a 2006, when I went to a dealer asking about trading it on an electric start model, they would only offer 2006 Blue Book value...... almost $1200 difference from a 2012 Blue Book value!! Even though it was purchased and registered in 2012 and still has warranty until Aug...
Kind of sleazy of a Mercury dealer to sell you as new... IMO