[Critter]

I happen to have a pic of mine. I'm in a similar boat, the PO got quite a bit of over spray on the plate, but its not completely covered. As you can see the printing on the plate is some sort of paint, but the specific info is stamped. You may also notice that the paint has flaked some but the printing underneath has stayed in place. If I were you I would try some light solvents so loosen the paint and see if it will come off. I don't know how well that stuff is printed on, but I would be willing to bet a little bit of mineral spirits wouldn't affect it. Start off with a little bit and see what happens.