October 30 - November 2, 2018 Firearms, Militaria, & Sporting
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/30/2018
One of the most sensationalized rifles of the Civil War is the Henry rifle. Identified specimens are extremely prized by both collectors and historians alike. This New Haven Arms Iron Frame henry serial number 165 is inscribed '5TH, TENN CAV, JULY 27 1862". Manufactured in 1862 and a believed total production of Iron Frame Henry rifles is between 200 and 275 rifles. Rifle number 165 is documented as a known Iron Framed Henry in Les Quick's book "THE HENRY RIFLE" it was pictured and briefly mentioned in the book "CIVIL WAR GUNS" by William Edwards in 1965 on page 159. The 5TH Tenn Cavalry had a spirited and active career from 1862 through 1865 with most activities in the Tennessee valley and the adjacent south. Interestingly another Iron Frame Henry rifle serial number 64 was identified to a Confederate Cavalry unit from bowling Green KY known as "Buckners Guides" giving further credence that the Henry rifle was used extensively by both northern and southern troops alike. Henry rifle serial number 165 has the traditional 24 inch octagon barrel with integral magazine and fitted with the early square backed nickel silver blade front sight and 1000 yard ladder adjustable "Henry" rear sight. Fitted with American walnut butt stock with iron crescent butt plate with early large trap and large compartment to facilitate the 4 piece wood cleaning rod. Disassembly revealed that upper and lower tang screws are numbered with the full "165" serial number as well as both butt plate screws. The wood stock is numbered in the mortise "165" as well as the butt plate and lower tang of the rifle. A sling swivel that appears to be from a Sharps carbine has been installed just to the rear of the lower tang and has been elongated for the use of a Civil War carbine snap so a cavalryman would not drop his rifle while mounted upon his horse. Previously held in the Thomas Suter and John Graham collections CONDITION. Very fine with the barrel and receiver having turned a worn dove grey overall. Two line Henry's Patent address is sharp and legible as is serial number. The elevation slide is missing from the rear sight as most are. The wood stock has numerous small bruises and scratches with a slight amount of material loss at wrist and toe. The finish appears to have been enhanced during the period with the addition of varnish or lacquer. The cartridge follower is a field replacement and is made of iron not brass as the originals were. The bore is worn with darkness in the grooves but visible rifling. The action operates smoothly and functions properly. This early documented Iron Frame Henry is one of the rarest of all Confederate used civil war firearms. TDW
Caliber/Bore
.44 Henry Rimfire
Manufacturer
New Haven Arms