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LOT 1020
Exceptional Civil War New Haven Arms Co. Henry Lever Action Rifle - Serial no. 5393, 44 Henry RF cal.,
24 inch octagon bbl., blue/brass finish, walnut stock. This high condition Henry rifle was manufactured c.
May 1864 and falls between serial nos. 5218 and 5594 identified as rifles issued to Civil War soldiers per Wiley
Sword in “The Historic Henry Rifle” (page 82). Most of the Henry rifles produced during the “War Between
the States” are believed to have been purchased by Union soldiers looking to get their hands on the most
advanced weapons available. While the Henry was more complex and fragile than a rifle-musket, its rapid
fire ability was sought after for close in fighting, and they proved useful both in stopping and conducting
assaults. As a result, the great majority of the Henry rifles under serial number 7,500 show moderate to
heavy wear. Henry rifles, like this example, with any original finish remaining are becoming more difficult to
encounter. This example is certainly in above average condition. This rifle features a squareback blade front
sight, notch and folding ladder rear sight with 900 yard to notch, the serial number on top of the barrel at
the breech, larger diameter follower and corresponding milling for the frame, later production frame without
an alternate sight dovetail, thumb screw lever latch, a sling hook loop on the left side of the barrel and
corresponding sling swivel on the left side of the smooth walnut buttstock, and later pointed heel buttplate
with a lid for the stock compartment (cleaning rod not included).