This is the most significant pitfall for collectors reviewing serial numbers on these pistols.
During WWII and post-war surplus sales, Hi-Standard (and the military) manufactured replacement frames. To ensure these replacement frames were not confused with new pistols, they were often serialized with the "HS" prefix but included an additional letter (like "HSR" or simply a non-standard sequence) or, more commonly, they used the original manufacturer's serial number restamped onto the replacement frame. histandard model hd military serial numbers best
The best shooter’s serial number is: B prefix, serial #65,000 to #85,000. This is the most significant pitfall for collectors
Why? These are "late mid-war" production. They have all the improvements (stronger slide, better sights) but lack the collector premium. They will shoot as accurately as any $1,500 target pistol. You can find them for $500-$700. Look for a B-prefix with a bright bore and minimal holster wear on the parkerizing. The best shooter’s serial number is: B prefix,
Unlike modern serialization, High Standard used sequential but non-annualized numbers. Factory records (courtesy of John Stimson’s research and High Standard archives) provide the following best-known production table:
| Production Year | Starting Serial | Ending Serial | Approx. Quantity | Notable Features | |----------------|----------------|---------------|------------------|------------------| | 1948 (late) | 150,000 | 153,000 | 3,000 | Early "slant" grip; bright blue finish | | 1949 | 153,001 | 167,500 | 14,500 | Parkerized finish begins; "Military" marked | | 1950 (early) | 167,501 | 173,000 | 5,500 | Last variation; 2-piece barrel |
Key rule of thumb: All Model HD Military pistols fall between serial #150,000 and #173,000. Any number outside that range is either a different High Standard model (e.g., Sport King, Supermatic) or a forgery.