See those white spots on the gunnels, that sure looks like the canoe was used in salt water and the brass screws reacted to the salt, bleaching the wood, hard to remove satisfactory. Normally the tacks holding planks show the same damage but since it was built during WW11 they no doubt used steel tacks, another reason to pass. Plus the front thwart is just behind the bow seat, that would have to be addressed if you wanted to solo from the front seat, canoe reversed. Check out Mike Elliot in BC, he can set you up with a good wc canoe.