That is not a Hunter HIN as it would begin with HUN
The registration is likely real but it may not belong to this boat. That metal placard you found is not a manufacturer's original. You can purchase the title and perhaps even register it in your name but without the HIN imprinted in the boat there is nothing to tie that hull to that title. That is an old trick to be able to sell or register a boat with no title, just find a title that matches and take it to the State's DMV which may not verify the actual HIN on the boat. It is possible that the HIN could have been changed at some time but there needs to be a document trail evidencing the change. A Marine Title search company with offices in LA could do a search and come up with the history of that title. Bottom line, to be sure that title belongs to that boat you need to confirm the number on the transom. Just don't see how or why a custom boat finisher would have to change the Manufacturers HIN on a boat unless the numbers and title were lost and in that event there should be documentation. Just think that when you go to sell that boat the prospective buyer is going to be just as hesitant as you are now. Just find out if you can get insurance for that boat with that title before you purchase. In case of an accident any insurance adjuster will have to verify the HIN on the hull and the company may likely withold payment.
