October 30 - November 2, 2018 Firearms, Militaria, & Sporting
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/30/2018
This outstanding Iron Frame Henry rifle serial number 262 was manufactured in 1862. Manufactured with a 24-1/4" octagon barrel with integral 16 round magazine, walnut stock with iron buttplate. Rounded German silver front blade sight with a windage adjustable rear sight mounted in barrel dovetail and a 1000 yard ladder adjustable Henry rear sight mounted in the receiver dovetail. Originally finished with a blued barrel and receiver and case colored hammer with blue lever and varnished buttstock. Experts have determined that the total production of Iron Frame Henry rifles to be between 200 and 275 units. It is believed that no more than 90 exist today as they were hard used and consumed during the United States Civil War and the following period of Western Expansion. These treasured rifles have long been known for their great rarity and were only found in the most discerning of collections. Serial number 262 is included in the known Iron Frame Henry inventory compiled by Les Quick for his book the "THE HENRY RIFLE". The rifle conforms entirely with the correct sights , matching serial numbered iron butt plate with large trap door for wooden cleaning rod use and all matching and numbered stock screws. This exemplary example was previously the center piece of noted Winchester and Colt collector Tommy Rholes. CONDITION: Excellent with overall dove grey patina and faint traces of blue around screw heads and in protected areas of barrel and particularly of the frame. Screw slots remain straight and true. Bottom of lifter with light scuffs and minor nicks; interior edges of lifter remain sharp with 40% blue remaining to bolt and top portion of extractor. Faint case colors remain to both hammer and lever. Small areas of original blue to trigger having mostly thinned and toned bright. Stock retains nearly all of its original lacquer with very light scuffs and scratches, and one discernible ding to center of right comb area. Action is crisp and functions properly barrel is mirror bright. Knowledgeable authorities agree that this truly exceptional Iron Frame Henry is one of the finest known to exist.
Manufacturer
New Haven Arms
Model
1st Model Iron Frame Henry