Speaking only for my ageing self, whose recall benefits from such hints, it is a helpful tip that I've possibly/probably seen the material before. In that sense, it adds valuable context to the title string. To wit, compare these examples and examine your own reaction:
Comments
People do this all the time. What, like that means it's not worth looking at?
No, it’s just nice to know what the date is for context. I don’t think it’s a criticism.
Speaking only for my ageing self, whose recall benefits from such hints, it is a helpful tip that I've possibly/probably seen the material before. In that sense, it adds valuable context to the title string. To wit, compare these examples and examine your own reaction:
Transistor Breakthrough Astounds Researchers
Transistor Breakthrough Astounds Researchers (1962)
From the moderator:
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=30400761