[sandGorgon]

Why do all these redesigns have serial numbers ? what purpose do they serve ?

Submissions to HN move up and down dynamically - remove the serial numbers and show (302 points..25 comments) which should be CLICKABLE. This will bring front and center the only two things that people judge in deciding to read a submission. Plus it will make it easier to click on a mobile device.

[pacomerh]

Indeed, he added the serial numbers because he was thinking in design elements not in functionality. It's very common practice of designers who don't do much UX.