Browning FN Hi-Power T-Series 9mm Vietnam War Trophy Pistol, MFD 1965 C&R

SOLD FOR: $4,800

LSB#: 240127GS003

Make: Browning, Made by FN in Belgium

Model: Hi-Power T-Series Vietnam War Trophy

Serial Number: T145253

Year of Manufacture: 1965, brought back in 1967.

Caliber: 9mm Parabellum

Action Type: Single Action Semi-Auto with Detachable Magazine

Markings: The left side of the slide is marked “BROWNING ARMS COMPANY ST LOUIS Mo. & MONTREAL P.Q. / MADE IN BELGIUM”. The barrel at the port is marked “CAL. 9m/m P”, with “E / LG / *” inside a crowned oval, a “* / U” inspection mark and a “Lion / PV” proof mark. The right side of the frame is marked with the serial number. The right front of the trigger guard is marked with a “Lion / PV” proof and a “* / U” inspection mark. The left front side of the trigger guard is marked “3”. The underside of the slide is marked “* / U” and “Lion  / P.V” as well as various other small factory proofs.

Barrel Length: 4 5/8”

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a half-round blade fixed to the front of the slide. The rear sight is a flat-topped “U” notch that is dovetailed into the rear of the slide.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered walnut panels. The grips have notable finish loss along the smooth borders as well as some scuffs and draglines. There are no chips or cracks. The checkering is well defined. Overall, the grips are in about Very good condition.

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright with sharp rifling. There is some faint erosion in the grooves. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9/10.

Overall Condition: This pistol retains about 65% of its metal finish. The leading edges show finish loss and light erosion. Discoloration from oxidation is visible throughout but is most notable on the slide. The grip straps have turned a dark patina. The slide and hammer serrations are sharp. The screw heads are sharp and the markings are clear. This pistol is in about Good-Plus condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. It has a frame mounted safety and the round hammer has a half cock safety position. This pistol still has a functioning magazine disconnect and the trigger pull is crisp. The slide is tight on the frame. 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 on a black leather holster with one 13-round magazine and War Trophy paperwork. Please note, no magazine will be included for purchasers who reside where it cannot be legally transferred.

Our Assessment: This is a Browning Hi-Power that was made by FN in Belgium in 1965. It is a “T-Series” Hi-Power, with the serial prefix used only from late 1964 until 1969 when Browning changed their serial number pattern again. The pistol is a War Trophy from the Vietnam War with paperwork to verify that it was brought back by Edward F. McKenna in 1967 and is in about Very Good condition with about 65% of its metal finish, a great bore and strong mechanics. Between being a T-series and being a War Trophy from Vietnam with paperwork, this will make a great addition to any collection and could still serve as a great shooter, today. Please see our photos and good luck!

-Greenfield