April 24-25, 2019 Extraordinary, Sporting, & Collector Firearms
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/24/2019
Fine original Second Model Henry rifle with gunmetal brass receiver and mounted with sling swivels on left side of barrel and left side of slab sawn American walnut butt. Manufactured for the civilian market in 1864 at the high point of the US Civil War these rifles were considered the most desired weapons of the day. Many were privately purchased and utilized in battle by both Northern and Southern troops alike, as well as being used extensively in our passage west into the western frontier of America. Chambered for the .44 Henry Rimfire cartridge with a magazine capacity of 15 rounds the "HENRY" quickly became the foundation for what would later become Winchester Repeating Arms Company. This rifle with its 24 1/4 inch octagon barrel has a ladder adjustable rear sight with elevation adjustment to 900 yards as well as a square backed tapered front sight of German silver. Two line Henry's patent address on top barrel flat with serial number 6229 stamped on same top flat just forward of receiver. Second model Henry rifle with brass crescent butt plate with trap provision containing a rare and desirable original Henry four piece steel cleaning rod. CONDITION. Very good as found. The gunmetal brass receiver and buttplate are very fine and have attained a classic mustard mellow patina. On the lower tang is found the "W" inspection of Oliver Winchester himself one of the primary investors in the New Haven Arms Company.The octagon barrel is an even dove grey with blue finish found in protected areas around rear sight and in close proximity to receiver. Matching serial numbers found on barrel. Inside stock mortise and inside of buttplate screws are not numbered on these later Second Model rifles. Bore is very fine with strong sharp rifling with light pitting and darkness in areas of grooves. The action is smooth and operates properly. The American walnut stock is very good with generous amounts of factory finish and a small amount of minor scratches and bruises. Stock overall is very fine with no material loss and is full fitting.