Series 24 was made II-44 to IV-44. As you probably know, each series was made in a block of 100,000 rifles and the serial numbers were repeated for each series. The Series 24 consisted of four configurations. Early design, early transition, square recoil bolt design, and late transition. The front sight on your rifle would be correct for that serial number range. The dust covers were not issued for that series, nor did it have a monopod or AA sights.
The bolt is matched by the last three numbers of the serial number on the bolt handle root.
your rifle is considered a "transitional" rifle.
Yes, the rifle should be safe to shoot.
You can check prices on ebay for bayonets. They vary, depending on condition.
Providing the bolt is matching, with an intact Mum, and the finish is original (not sanded), you should get a decent price for it. (I don't do values, I get in trouble with that)
Dean (the other one)
OFC-Orange Co. Ca Chapter