In the past there were no standards on HIN's and yours sounds like it was
before the HIN's were standardized.

The license bureau will generally accept what ever number is present if it
matches the title. Worst thing you may have to do is to get the local,
police or water patrol to fill out a VIN/HIN Verification Form. This is
usually a no cost item. The officer compares the HIN on the boat to the
title, enters it on the form and signs the form, then you are off to the
license bureau.

Don Dando