Browning FN Hi High Power Gold Classic Engraved 9mm Semi-Auto Pistol, 1985 281 of 500 Satin Gray & Gold Commemorative ATF C&R
SOLD FOR: $4,025
LSB#: 201010SD05
Make: Browning, Made by FN in Belgium
Model: Hi Power 50th Anniversary Gold Classic Commemorative
Serial Number: 245GC281, 281 of 500
Year of Manufacture: 1985, ATF C&R
Caliber: 9mm Luger
Action Type: Single Action Semi-Auto with Removable Magazine, Thumb Safety, & Magazine Disconnect Safety
Markings: The left side of the slide is marked “BROWNING ARMS COMPANY MORGAN, UTAH & MONTREAL P.Q.”, the right is marked “MADE IN BELGIUM / BY FABRIQUE NATIONALE HERSTAL”. The barrel is marked “CAL. 9mm LUGER / 245GC281”. The front strap is marked “245GC281”. The pistol has beautiful foliate scroll relief engraving with eagle’s heads on each side in gold, an eagle and bobcat scene on the top in gold with the eagle’s chicks behind, a bust portrait of John Browning in gold at the top-rear, “BROWNING GOLD CLASSIC” in gold on banner on the right of the dust cover and “281 OF FIVE HUNDRED” in gold on banner on the left. The bottom of the trigger guard has a gold Buck Mark logo. The left-rear of the slide is signed by the engraver “J.M.Delarus” (Jean Marie Delarus).
Barrel Length: 4 5/8”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade fixed to the front of the slide. The rear sight is a square notch dovetailed to the rear of the slide.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece hand checkered walnut with deluxe carved borders. Each panel has one dark spot toward the rear above the grip screw and each has a spot of pooled finish on the rear edge a little above center. Otherwise, there is no notable wear or damage. The checkering is sharp. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in about Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Satin Gray & Gold
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 99% of its metal finish. There is no notable wear or damage, only light handling marks. The screw head is sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this pistol is in Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. It has a safety mounted on the left side of the frame. The magazine disconnect functions properly. The trigger is crisp. 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 in a walnut display case with blue velvet lined french-fit interior, brass latch, Browning Buck Mark logo on the lid and a brass nameplate engraved “WILLIAM E. KILGORE, M.D.”. A Browning Classic Limited Edition cardboard sleeve has kept the case in Fine-Excellent condition with only a few scattered minor marks. A single 13-round magazine is included in Excellent condition. Please note, the magazine will not be included for buyers who reside where it cannot be legally transferred.
Our Assessment: This is a Browning Gold Classic Hi Power, made to commemorate 50 years of the model’s production. It is a wonderful tribute to both John Browning and to his famous 9mm pistol with gorgeous engraving, Satin Gray finished steel, hand checkered and carved stocks and a nice walnut display case. With only 500 of this model made, it will make a fantastic addition to any collection, especially collectors of Browning firearms and the High Power in particular. Please see our photos and good luck!