Gabor,
here is a link to the Australian Defence Force DC-3/C-47 listing.
http://www.adf-gallery.com.au/2a65.htm
Note that the serial 42-24140 is not listed there, in fact, that particular block of serial numbers runs out precisely at 43-24139.
I think that gives an edge to the belief that the American listing is wrong and that the Russian listing of 24140 is indeed correct.
So: 42-24135 to 42-24139 came to Australia.
42-24140 went to the VVS but was assumed to have been among those that came here.
Makes sense?