Here's a few pics of original cars.
69

1969 RR

1969 Bee

69 runner

69 daytona

1969 Daytona

1970 Superbee! 1970!

1970 Challenger

69 F6 Daytona

1970 RR

As you can see, most dipsticks I have pictures of are black, even some 70's!!!

Thanks Paul for the excellant pics.

any ideas which plants any of the cars are from ?

I'm wondering if it's a build plant variation.

Dipstick lore is one of those areas that gives us MOPAR folk time to sit & chat...
I think it's safe to say (with regards to the 69 model year) that, generally speaking, the tube was OUTSIDE the exhaust manifold, natural in finish, and had a black or natural handle... Natural can appear dark or black too... I mounted my handle between the valve cover and manifold for 2 reasons: 1. I had to buy a repop (original was junk) and it fit best in that location...trying to bend or maneuver it to fit outside the manifold was causing it to become brittle where it entered the block, and I did not want to risk breaking it. 2. The most important reason, is that it's much easier to lower the body onto the engine without the risk of scratching the inner fender...Of course, I'm not looking to please any judges either!

I think what we're seeing and taking as natural finish on the handles is just quick and cheaply painted black parts that have faded or burned off to appear natural.

All 440's look the same, lets see pics of the cars (Coronet R/T's that is)

I would soak my handle in lacquer thinner if I still had it!!!