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The right barrel flat is stamped with the “C.G.C.” initials
of Ordnance Sub-Inspector Charles G. Chapman above
an “H” New Haven Arms inspection mark. A second “H” inspection mark is stamped on the right side of the receiver immediately behind the barrel inspection mark. U.S. contact Henry rifles were stamped with a final inspection mark on the right side of the stock wrist that consisted of the script initials “CGC” in an oval border and frequently have a “H”
or “C” inspection mark stamped on the right heel of the buttplate and adjacent portion of the stock. None of these markings are visible on the stock or buttplate of this rifle. The rifle serial number is stamped: (1) on the top barrel flat between the rear sight and the receiver, (2) on the left side of the lower receiver tang, (3) in the upper tang inlet of the stock, (4) on the inside of the buttplate below the screw hole and (5) on the shanks of both the hand-fitted buttplate screws. All of the visible serial numbers match. The tang screws are typically not serial numbered on Henry rifles above serial number 3100. The rifle is complete with the four-piece, jointed hickory cleaning rod issued with Henry rifles in this serial number range.
CONDITION: Fine overall. The rifle is all original and retains 50% of the original blue finish. The barrel/magazine has some wear on the high points and muzzle and a few minor handling marks. The barrel legend, serial number, “C.G.C.” inspection mark and “H” mark are very sharp. The rear sight is original to the rifle and remains in very good condition.
The receiver and buttplate have a very attractive aged patina. The side plate joints are perfect. The receiver has
a few very minor handling marks and scratches and the buttplate has a few spots of age discoloration. The case colors on the hammer, trigger and lever have faded to
a plum blue patina. The stock remains in very good to excellent condition and retains most of the original varnish finish. Wear is limited to a few light handling marks and scratches and several relatively minor dents in the right stock wrist. The “C.G.C.” Ordnance final inspection mark on the right side of the stock wrist was susceptible to wear and is frequently not visible on U.S. contract Henry rifles; like is the case on this rifle. The rare four-piece cleaning rod is in very good condition. This is an exceptional example of a U.S. Contract, 1st D.C Cavalry, Henry rifle. Although the Henry rifle was purchased in large numbers by individual Federal soldiers who appreciated the firepower offered by a 15-shot lever action magazine rifle, the 1st D.C Cavalry was the only Federal unit equipped entirely with Henry rifles during the Civil War. Most U.S. contract Henry rifles show hard wear; this is one of the finest examples of a U.S. contract Henry rifle ever offered for sale by Rock Island Auction Company with phenomenal ownership pedigree.
Provenance: The Mac McCroskie Collection;
The Joe Marlin Hilliard Collection.
Estimate: 60,000 - 90,000
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