willysmjeeps.com

Been doing some reading and for what I can see that they only made the M38A1 for one years with the hindged front grill. Willys M38A1

Years Produced: 1952-1957

No. of Units: 101,488 (80,290 domestic use / 21,198 foreign sales)

This was the first appearance of the 'round-fender' Jeep that would eventually become the CJ5. The M38A1 was quite different that the CJ5, having a stronger chassis and reversed front spring shackles, in addition to the military accoutrements such as standardized GI instruments and a 24 volt electrical system. The M38A1 lasted quite awhile in military service. Even after it was replaced by the high-tech Ford M151, they could be seen in OD green as late as the 1970s. In all, 101,488 units were produced, some of which went for export.
First Generation Vehicles: First Generation model year deliveries were from initial production in1952 through October/November 1953. Attributes of first generation deliveries included: Battery Box top securing mechanism consisting of 8 thumb screws around the perimeter of the box lid.
Front Grill mounting consisting of two 45 degree hinges, one at each frame rail allowing for easy removal.
Radiator was mounted to the fan shroud and front grill in a free standing position.
Front Fender seams specific to the first generation deliveries.
Front Bumper width of 54 1/4" at the longest point with no hole
Of the First Generation deliveries, there was a subset of very early deliveries which included use of the shorter M38 front bumper which had the hole in the center for the hand crank of previous models. Second Generation Vehicles: The second generation deliveries began around October/November 1953, where modifications were made including: Battery Box top securing mechanism consisting of a cam-lever strap assembly.
Front Grill mounting (fixed/rigid) consisting of a large bolt at the center base of the grill.
Radiator was mounted to the fan shroud/grill assembly with the addition of two support rods attached to the leading edge of the firewall.
Front Fender seams specific to the second generation deliveries.
Continued Front Bumper width of 54 1/4" at the longest point with no hole.

Can you post some pic`s so we can see what you have and get a little better idea of what exactly you have? Jim

Being an early 'a1 doesn't automatically make it worth more money. Some people will prefer an early one over a later model and vice versa. The early models had extra features that the m38 had that were omitted in later models (fording system for example).

Now that I'm thiking about it, I've yet to hear any bragging about the hinge. To be honest, most people seem to consider A1s bottom shelf compared to the WWII stuff. Personally, I like it that way because it keeps the cost down.