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LOT 3005
Civil War New Haven Arms Co. First Model Henry Lever Action Rifle with
Cleaning Rod - Serial no. 2122, 44 Henry RF cal., 24 1/4 inch octagon bbl., blue/
brass finish, walnut stock. The Henry repeating rifle was one of the most advanced
firearms of the Civil War and was the first truly successful lever action repeater.
While only around 14,000 or so were produced, they paved the way for Winchester’s
Model 1866, 1873, and 1876 rifles that were popular alongside the Henry in the
American West after the Civil War. Most Civil War Henry rifles are believed to have
been privately purchased by Union soldiers seeking the most advanced rifles they
could buy. Many veteran soldiers are believed to have used their enlistment bonuses
to purchase Henry rifles in the latter part of the war. The Henry’s 15 round magazine
and fast lever action was a serious advantage in combat, especially when the fighting
was close, and Native American warriors and Confederate soldiers also sought out
the famous Henry rifles when they could get their hands on them. This rifle dates to
c. May 1863 and has the distinctive early Henry rifle brass frame with an alternate
rear sight dovetail, the larger follower and corresponding frame slot,
the early brass buttplate with rounded heel, and a desirable four-piece
wood cleaning rod in the stock. The rifle features a German silver blade
front sight, “buckhorn” period replacement rear sight, “HENRY’S PATENT.
OCT. 16. 1860/MANUFACT’D BY THE NEWHAVEN ARMS. CO. NEWHAVEN.
CT.” barrel marking, the serial number on top at the breech, and matching
numbered walnut buttstock and screws.
CONDITION: Very good with dark brown patina and minor oxidation/pitting
on the iron, highly attractive aged patina on the bass, scattered scratches and
dings, and fairly minor overall wear. The stock is also very good and has scratches
and dings along the side, slight gaps at the junction with the frame, and mild wear.
The cleaning rod is fine with dark patina on the iron and some chips and wear on the
wood. Mechanically functions.
Estimate: 20,000 - 30,000