The last I heard from Nikon was what I posted earlier: Thank you for your patience. I received a response from Japan concerning the marking on the lens. A Red "R" referred to the use of the lens for "Reproduction" or duplication. "D" was for the same purpose. It could be used for 'Duplication'. That is all the information we have to offer on that subject. I imagine that the "R" and the "D" was meant to imply that the lens was a marco type and could be used for close-up photography but they discontinued that designation with these lenses. I have the 120mm that you have but with a serial number 700xxx which would seem to imply that it was manufactured at a later date than yours (I bought mine new from B&H around 2008). But a "D" or "R" notwithstanding these are extremely sharp lenses and can be used in close quarters to the subject. Both of my last 2 kallitypes were taken with the 300 SW.
Thomas
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