Understanding the nuances of the High Standard H-D series requires analyzing its progression across three distinct production eras. High Standard utilized a continuous block serialization system during this timeframe, which makes identifying exact configurations crucial for authentication. Model Variant Production Years Estimated Production Vol. Key Features & Finishes 1940–1942 ~6,900 units Deep blue luster finish, adjustable rear sight USA Model H-D (Military) 1943–1946 ~44,000 units
Determining the age, rarity, and historical value of a High Standard rimfire pistol relies entirely on decoding its production marks and frame stampings. The remains one of the most celebrated .22 Long Rifle target pistols ever built, famous for its exceptional accuracy, heavy barrel, and iconic role in World War II espionage.
Correct, early-style magazines are difficult to find and expensive. Summary of Key Serial Ranges Approximate Serial Range Significance OSS Suppressed 114,000 - 117,000 Rarest, high value Early US Property ~100,000 - 120,000 High historical value Post-War Commercial 120,000 - 200,000+ Excellent quality/collectible histandard model hd military serial numbers best
The single most valuable online resource for Hi‑Standard serial numbers is . Researcher John Stimson obtained the complete Hi‑Standard serial number lists from the factory archives. He has published detailed charts, shipping record excerpts, and model‑specific information on his website. For the HD Military, his pages provide:
Built under the experimental designation Model MS (Military-Silent) , these firearms featured integral suppressors engineered by Western Electric and Bell Laboratories. Understanding the nuances of the High Standard H-D
True military-property-marked pistols command higher prices than post-war commercial models due to their direct connection to WWII history.
The High Standard Model HD Military is more than just a plinker; it is a piece of American history. By checking the serial number, verifying the "USA" or "Military" marking, and looking for U.S. Property stamps, you can identify the best, most authentic, and most valuable models, including the storied WW2-era examples. Key Features & Finishes 1940–1942 ~6,900 units Deep
| Description | Condition | Sale Price | Year | |-------------|-----------|------------|------| | HD Military, 6 ¾‑inch barrel, blue finish | Very Good | $389 (Buy It Now) | 2025 | | HD Military, 6 ¾‑inch barrel, 97% finish | Excellent | $600 (estimate) | 2025 | | Two‑pistol lot including HD Military and Model 101 | Mixed condition | $600–$1,100 (estimate) | 2024 | | HD Military (no safety cutout, early variant) | Very Good | $399.95 | 2025 |
As of early 2026, the market for High Standard HD pistols shows steady, modest appreciation.
, for covert missions. A suppressed Hi-Standard was famously found with U-2 pilot Gary Powers when he was shot down over the Soviet Union in 1960. Production Era : The "HD Military" was manufactured primarily between 1946 and 1955