Early Import FN Belgium Browning Hi-Power 9mm 4.7” Semi Auto Pistol, 1954
SOLD FOR: $2,125.00
LSB#: LSB250803JT001
Make: FN Belgium / Browning
Model: Hi-Power
Serial#: 70378. The “BROWNING ARMS COMPANY” marking only began to appear around serial number 70000, making this one of the first post-war imports to carry the Browning Arms Company mark.
Year of Manufacture: 1954 / C&R
Caliber: 9mm Luger
Action Type: Semi-Automatic Pistol, Exposed Hammer, Internal Extractor, Single Action with Detachable Magazine.
Markings: The frame, slide and barrel are all marked with the serial number, “70378”. The left side of the slide is marked with the Browning rollmark. There are Belgian proofs throughout with a “*N” inspectors mark (Henri Florkin).
Barrel Length: 4.7”
Sights/ Optics: The front sight is a half moon blade fixed to the slide. The rear sight is a V-notch dovetailed to the back of the slide.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: This pistol includes 1 x 13 round original magazine in Very Good to Excellent Condition.
Stock Configuration & Condition/ Grip: The grips are two piece checkered wood. There are little to no handling marks throughout. There are no chips or cracks. Overall the grips are in Excellent condition. The inside of the panels are painted red.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright, the rifling is pronounced. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9.75/10.
Overall Condition: This pistol retains about 99% of its metal finish. There are a few faint handling marks and small rust freckles in some spots. The action has minimal wear. The slide has a light plum color. The screw heads are sharp and the pins are undamaged. The markings are clear. Overall the pistol is in Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this pistol. As with all previously owned firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards. This pistol sports a thumbprint style internal extractor.
Box Paperwork and Accessories: This pistol includes one 13 round magazine.
Our Assessment: This FN Browning Hi-Power, manufactured in 1954, is a superb example of an early commercial-production pistol from Fabrique Nationale in Belgium. Featuring the distinctive “thumbprint” slide and internal extractor, this configuration is highly sought after by collectors for its pre-T-series features and clean lines. Chambered in 9mm Luger and utilizing the revolutionary 13-round double-stack magazine, the Hi-Power was one of the most influential handgun designs of the 20th century, serving in military and law enforcement forces around the world. This particular pistol is in excellent condition, retaining approximately 99% of its original deep blued finish with only a few faint handling marks and tiny freckles of age. The serial numbers on the frame, slide, and barrel all match, and the Belgian proofs, including the *N inspector mark for Henri Florkin, confirm its correct 1954 production. The bore is bright with strong rifling and no visible erosion, rating 9.75/10. The checkered wood grips are likewise excellent, free of cracks or chips, and retain their original red paint on the inside panels. Mechanically, the pistol functions as intended with tight lock-up and a clean single-action break.
For collectors of early post-war European handguns or Browning enthusiasts, this 1954 Hi-Power represents an exceptional example of FN craftsmanship during the golden age of steel-framed pistols. It combines historical appeal, high condition, and mechanical soundness in one of the most iconic 9mm pistols ever produced. -R.E.
