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CONDITION: Very good plus. The rifle is all
original and has all of the correct markings and
features found on the 800 U.S. Contract Henry rifles
purchased to arm the 1st D.C. Cavalry. The rifle shows
wear consistent with a weapon that was issued and saw
combat. Traces of original blue finish remain on the barrel/
magazine with the balance a gray-brown patina visible with sharp edges and
crisp legend, serial number and inspection marks. There are a number of old dents and
what appear to be vice marks on both sides of the forward swiveling barrel extension. The left
barrel flat has some similar marks below the rear sight. The front and rear sights appear to be original to the rifle. The receiver and buttplate are fine and have an attractive, untouched, patina. There are several small dents visible on the top of the right side of the receiver and sideplate. The sideplate joints are tight. The buttplate has a few minor scratches and some scattered patches of age discoloration. Traces of the original casehardened finish are present on the sides of the hammer. The case colors on the lever have faded to a brown patina. The stock is in very good condition with moderate handling wear. The “C.G.C.” inspection mark on the right side of the stock wrist is faint but visible. The stock has a number of light dents and scratches which are typical of a military firearm carried on horseback. There is a eight-inch hair-line horizontal crack running from the buttplate toward
the comb on the left side of the stock and a second one-inch hairline crack on the lower right side of the stock at the buttplate. These cracks do not detract from the appearance of the rifle or effect the integrity of the stock. The action functions perfectly. This is a fine example of a scarce 1st D.C. Cavalry Henry rifle!
Provenance: The Joe Marlin Hilliard Collection.
Estimate: 35,000 - 55,000
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