Most of the time yes it can.It all depends on the factory keeping accurate records of there serial numbers.
Usually by the serial number. If no serial number, then by features
Serial number
1923; it tells you when it was made.
Usually by the serial number.
There are serial number tables that have been published.
It is impossible to tell when a firearm was made with just the serial number. You have to provide the name of the maker also.
Early 1936, and it does not tell you anything else.
1942, and it tells you where it was made lolwut.
Impossible to tell the maker from just the serial number
By the serial number.
Usually by the serial number.
By the serial number