Interesting question. I don't know if the serial number offers any specific detail about the camera. If you register your camera by phone, or the next time you or someone else makes a tech support call, ask and consider sharing the info here.
Of course, each number is unique and is used in the event of an insurance claim such as loss or theft. That's why it's important to register a camera with the manufacturer and/or write down the number and keep it in a safe place.
There is a little blub on insuring a digital camera in this article:
http://www.digicamhelp.com/learn/camera-questions-and-answers/digital-camera-travel-tips.htm
