FN Browning German Law Enforcement 9mm Para Semi-Auto Pistol, 1952-1954 C&R

Sold For: $1,278.00

LSB#: 220529TP026

Make: Fabrique Nationale

Model: Hi-Power

Serial Number: 53803

Year of Manufacture: 1952-1954 C&R

Caliber: 9mm Luger

Action Type: Single Action Semi-Auto with Removable Magazine and Thumb Safety

Markings: The left side of the slide is marked “FABRIQUE NATIONALE D’ARMES DE GUERRE / HERSTAL BELGIUM”, “BROWNING’S PATENT DEPOSE”, “lion / P.V” proof, and a “* / P” inspection mark. The left side of the frame is marked with the same proof and inspector mark. The right side of the chamber is marked with the same inspection mark and proof as well as a crowned and ovalled “E / LG / *” proof and “CAL.9m/mP.”. The left side of the chamber, the right side of the slide, and right side of the frame are marked “53803”. The sides of the barrel lug are marked with small factory markings. The right trigger guard bow is marked “R5”. The bottom flat of the firing pin housing, under the slide, and the butt strap are marked with small factory markings.

Barrel Length: 4 5/8”

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a rounded blade fixed to the front of the slide. The rear sight is a V-notch dovetailed to the rear of the slide.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered walnut panels with smooth borders. The grips show some minor marks and lines on the smooth borders. The checkering is generally sharp, showing some light handling wear. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in about Fine condition.

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore.

Overall Condition: This pistol retains about 87% of its metal finish. There is some erosion and pitting on the front strap. There are a few notable scratches on the left side of the slide. There is light thinning on the trigger guard and the front leading edges of the slide. There are some other infrequently dispersed faint nicks and scratches. The screw heads are lightly marked and the pins are not peened. The markings are clear. Overall, this pistol is in about Very Good-Plus condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. There is a tiny amount of play between the slide and frame. The magazine disconnect safety is present and functional. We have not fired this pistol. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This pistol comes with two 13-round magazines and a black leather holster. Please note, no magazines will be included for purchasers who reside where it cannot be legally transferred.

Our Assessment: This here is a post-war commercial Hi-Power used by German law enforcement, manufactured sometime between 1952 & 1954. According to Anthony Vanderlinden, German law enforcement pistols did not bear any specific markings and were only discenerable from other Hi-powers by their police holster, which is included with this example. Moreover, this pistol falls in the serial range purchased by Germany, which is 28,000 to 60,000.

Aesthetically speaking, this pistol was manufactured during a time when the extractor was internal. Beginning in 1962, the external extractor was implemented for the purpose of functionality and cost effectiveness, though deterred from the pleasing aesthetic appeal of the internal extractor. Hi-Power pistols are known to be quality tried and trusted pistols. They have been the chosen sidearm by armies and police forces across the world throughout the millennia. Though practical for self-defense, any true collector wouldn’t think twice putting rounds through this pistol. This is one for the collection. Please see our photos and good luck!

FN Browning German Law Enforcement 9mm Para Semi-Auto Pistol, 1952-1954 C&R
FN Browning German Law Enforcement 9mm Para Semi-Auto Pistol, 1952-1954 C&R