Histandard Model Hd Military | Serial Numbers Best
When evaluating "best" examples, collectors look for specific anomalies or features associated with certain serial number blocks:
To date your pistol accurately:
| Serial Number Start | Approx. Year | Critical Feature | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | 125,000 | 1948 | Blue finish, dog-leg hammer, slotted bushing. | | 140,000 | 1949 | Parkerized finish appears. Micro rear sight optional. | | 152,000 | 1950 | Straight spur hammer becomes standard. | | 168,000 | 1951 | Last commercial batch. Transition to M101 parts. | histandard model hd military serial numbers best
To determine if a pistol is "best" (military issue), one must look beyond the serial number to the roll marks. Cross-reference: Use the table below for a manufacturing
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: | Serial Number Start | Approx
| 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.
