AT1 for sale in Australia, no year listed.

Matching VIN and engine number is AT1-001657. 

I've looked at the VIN list in Tech Library and other sources but AT1 numbers listed seem to start from 100101. 

Was AT1 made before 1969? Or, is this a 1969 model?

It has a yellow tank with badge, but that might not be original. 

Any insight appreciated.

Tex
 

Good pictures of the serial numbers here: burnsandco.hibid.com/lot/81445-506591-102676/yamaha-125cc/

Most VIN lists are for "US" models.  US models all came with the 12v dynamo/starter (aka "electric leg" in some countries). 

That looks to be a Magneto ignition "kick start only" model that was never officially imported to the USA so it's not surprising the VIN "range" is not the same as the US models. 

There is some evidence the base 248 AT1 model was sold in Japan (and other countries) as kick start only in 1969 which is what that bike likely is.

The US got what was technically the 261 model code AT1E with the electric starter in 1969 with the VIN starting at 100101.

Some countries/markets had a choice of both models...  I believe the Oceania market was a place you could get either one.