I just purchased a 1940 Chevy Coupe that has been modified by the last 3 owners. It is about 75% complete and is going to make one BAD ride. The problem being, I do not have a title to the car but the VIN plate, or what I was told is the VIN plate, was provided with the car. I will try to describe this plate the best I can.

Square aluminum plate with GM manufacture info at the top.
Below is a series of numbers as follows:
Style# 40-1027
Body# F3902
Trim# 87
Paint# 279

All the above descriptions are in abbreviations. The plate appears to be really old and in appropriate condition for the year.
I just want to be able to confirm this plate is a VIN before putting money into the restoration. I live in Ohio and am currently investigating methods to get the vehicle titles, inspected, and on the road. Any advise will be greatly appreciated. Thanks