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The matching serial number is stamped on the top barrel flat, left side of the lower tang, stock inlet, and buttplate. The tang screws are, correctly, not stamped with the rifle serial number. The “H” inspection mark of B. Tyler Henry is stamped on the lower tang behind the lever latch. As seen on this example, the only Ordnance mark on the 1865 rifles is a tiny “J.T.” inspection mark stamped in block letters on the left side of the stock
balance. Both the front and rear sights are original to the rifle and remain in very fine condition. The excellent original brass frame has a highly attractive untouched aged appearance. The receiver has tight fitting sideplates. 40% original nitre blue remains on the bolt. Slight patterns of original case colors remain on the hammer. Half of darkened original case colors remain on the lever in the protected areas. The wood
wrist. Due to the size and location of the marking it is rarely visible on rifles with any significant handling wear. The “JT” marking on this example is clearly visible. The barrel and integral 15-shot magazine are blued, the receiver, cartridge elevator and buttplate have a natural brass finish, the rear sight, bolt, and tang and buttplate screws show traces of niter blue in protected areas, and the straight grain walnut stock is oil finished.
CONDITION: Extremely fine overall as one of the best U.S. Henry Rifles extant. The barrel and magazine retain 70% plus original blue finish with smooth brown-gray patina on the
is excellent with some minor handling/storage marks. The excellent stock retains the correct Henry “bump.” The “JT” Ordnance marking on the stock wrist is crisp. Mechanically excellent. This rifle is in outstanding condition for a U.S. Henry rifle falling in the 3rd Regiment Veteran Volunteer Infantry serial number range, and is a must have for the serious Civil War or U.S. arms collector. These U.S. martial arms generally show hard use and are difficult to find in any condition. This example certainly rates as one of the very finest U.S. martially inspected Henry Rifles we have offered at auction.
Estimate: 130,000 - 190,000
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