Understanding the serial numbers on your High Standard Supermatic Citation pistol is key to its history and value. This comprehensive guide will help you decipher the markings and learn what they reveal about your firearm. We'll explore the significance of these serial numbers, providing you with the tools to authenticate your own Supermatic Citation and connect with its rich history.
The Significance of High Standard Supermatic Citation Serial Numbers
High Standard manufactured a vast number of Supermatic Citation pistols over the years. Each pistol was assigned a unique serial number, acting as its fingerprint. This number, typically found on the frame under the barrel, isn't just a random sequence of digits; it holds valuable information. The serial number can help determine:
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Manufacturing Date: While High Standard didn't use a strictly chronological system, patterns in serial numbers and production records allow experienced collectors to approximate the year of manufacture. This is crucial for assessing the pistol's age and historical context.
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Model Variations: Subtle differences existed across different Supermatic Citation production runs. Serial number ranges often correlate with specific features or changes in the manufacturing process.
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Authenticity: Knowing the expected serial number range for a particular model helps verify the authenticity of a firearm, guarding against counterfeits or misrepresented pistols. This is particularly important in the secondary market where fraudulent firearms can exist.
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Collectors' Value: The serial number plays a role in determining a Supermatic Citation's value among collectors. Certain serial number ranges, representing rare or early models, command higher prices.
Locating Your High Standard Supermatic Citation Serial Number
Before diving into decoding, you must locate the serial number. It's typically found:
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Under the Barrel: This is the most common location. Carefully inspect the frame of your pistol underneath the barrel. The serial number is usually stamped into the metal.
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On the Frame: Less common, but sometimes the serial number may be stamped on another part of the pistol's frame, so inspect thoroughly.
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On accompanying paperwork: If you possess original documentation for the firearm, the serial number will be listed there.
Remember to handle your firearm responsibly and safely while searching for the serial number.
Decoding High Standard Supermatic Citation Serial Number Patterns (Examples and Case Studies)
Unfortunately, a universally accepted, detailed chart linking High Standard Supermatic Citation serial numbers to specific manufacturing dates doesn't publicly exist. High Standard's record keeping from that era wasn't consistently detailed enough for modern comprehensive analysis. However, experienced collectors have established some general patterns based on observed serial numbers and known production timelines.
Example: Let's say you have a Supermatic Citation with serial number "A12345". The letter prefix "A" might indicate a particular year or model variation, while the numerical sequence "12345" would fall into a specific range among collectors. Determining its exact manufacturing date requires cross-referencing information across multiple sources, including online forums, collector databases (if accessible), and potentially contacting firearms appraisal experts.
Case Study 1: A Rare Variant: A collector recently acquired a Supermatic Citation with a serial number beginning with "Z," a letter prefix rarely seen in publicly documented serial numbers. This immediately suggested the possibility of a rare or limited-edition model, significantly impacting its value. Further research into forums and historical records is necessary to confirm this assumption.
Case Study 2: Questionable Authenticity: A buyer found a Supermatic Citation at an auction with a serial number significantly outside known ranges. After consulting online resources and contacting a reputable firearms appraiser, it was determined that the serial number was likely forged, making the firearm itself a potential counterfeit.
Resources for Decoding Your Serial Number
While a complete, readily available database doesn't exist, several avenues can help you understand your High Standard Supermatic Citation's serial number better:
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Online Forums: Communities dedicated to firearms collecting often include discussions regarding serial numbers and manufacturing dates. Engaging in these forums can provide valuable insights from experienced collectors.
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Collector Databases: Some specialized firearms databases (though access may be restricted or require membership) might contain information on Supermatic Citation serial numbers.
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Firearms Appraisers: Professional firearms appraisers have access to resources and expertise that can help determine your pistol's manufacturing date and value.
Conclusion: The Ongoing Quest to Understand High Standard Supermatic Citation Serial Numbers
Understanding your High Standard Supermatic Citation's serial number enhances its historical significance and value. While a comprehensive, universally accessible database is lacking, using a combination of online resources and expert guidance can unlock the mysteries behind those numbers, helping you better appreciate your firearm's unique place in history. Remember always to handle firearms safely and responsibly.