May 28 & 29, 2020 Extraordinary, Sporting, & Collector Firearms
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/28/2020
Manufactured in the later part of 1863 and at the peak of the United States Civil War. 24 - 1/4" octagon barrel with integral 15 round tubular magazine. Barrel is marked "HENRY'S PATENT.OCT.16.1860 MANUFACT'D BY THE NEW HAVEN ARMSCO.NEW HAVEN CT." Fitted with nickel silver blade front sight and ladder adjustable "Henry" rear sight graduated to 1000 yards and serial number 3864 to rear of sight on top barrel flat. Receiver is made of gunmetal brass with serial number 3864 located on left side of lower tang internally. Straight grained American walnut stock with serial number 3864 found in mortise of upper tang and gun metal brass butt plate is also serial numbered internally at toe. Buttplate screws are numbers matching to rifle while tang screws are not numbered but are correct on this transitional rifle. This civilian Henry rifle (3864) was produced in the midst of the 1st US Government martial series. The preponderance of these rifles were issued to Union troops of the 3rd US Volunteer Infantry, and the 1st DC Cavalry. This rifle most certainly was obtained for use during the conflict as a great number of civilian Henry Rifles were purchased privately and issued to units such as the 7th, 11th and 66th Illinois Volunteer Infantry. CONDITION: Very good with the frame having attained a very mellow mustard patina. The barrel is a mottled grey patina with small period imperfections and scratches. The bore is very strong with visible rifling and light pitting in grooves. The American walnut stock has been lightly sanded at a much earlier time but is very good with the appropriate oil finish. The rear sight elevator is a gunsmith replacement produced of brass. The action operates smoothly and properly. The screw heads have slight distress in the slots as is expected as these rifles were disassembled in the field for cleaning and maintenance. A very attractive and honest Civil War Henry rifle that is far better than average. PROVENANCE: From the Carl Balderson Jr. Estate Collection. TDW
Item Dimensions: L: 43 - 1/2".
Caliber/Bore
.44 Henry Rim Fire
Manufacturer
New Haven Arms