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Until 2015, this historic Henry rifle had its incredibly rare dust cover present. The cover was engraved in the same style as the rifle and was inscribed “Chr KrauSs.” The cover was tragically lost, but it identified the rifle’s original owner: Christian Krauss (also spelled “Krouse” or “Krause” in some records), a private in Company F of
the 3rd Regiment U.S. Veteran Volunteer Infantry who previously served in Company A of the 4th New Jersey Infantry. The 4th was originally raised for 90 days service on April 27, 1861, and then was reorganized to serve for three years on August 19, 1861. During the war, the regiment saw extensive service in the East and lost 266 men, including 5 officers and 156 enlisted men killed or mortally wounded. Colonel Simpson and 400 of the men were captured
at the Battle of Gaines Mill on June 27, 1862, but they were freed and back to fighting after the Seven Days battles, including at the Battle of Antietam on September 16-17, 1862, and Krauss is listed as discharged from the 4th on March 21, 1863.
CONDITION: Exceptionally fine with 50% plus original blue finish remaining on the barrel along with some smooth gray and brown patina and minor oxidation, attractive aged patina on the very fine crisp frame and furniture, 50% original case colors on the hammer, crisp engraving and markings, and mild age and storage related wear overall. The stock is very fine and has mild scratches and dings, a distinct “Henry bump” under the sling swivel on the left, and general minor wear for a Civil War Henry. Mechanically excellent. The rifle does not appear to have seen much use and is certainly one of the finest engraved Henry rifles from the U.S. 3rd Veteran Volunteer Infantry.
Estimate: 50,000 - 75,000
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