May 13-15, 2025 Firearms and Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/13/2025
Production of innovative lever action Volcanic arms continued under Oliver Winchester's New Haven Arms despite the inherent flaws with design and underpowered ammunition. Plant supervisor Benjamin Tyler Henry began work on an improved design around 1858 and was granted a patent in 1860 for what would become the Henry rifle, perhaps the first reliable lever action rifle and direct precursor to the Winchester 1866. This extremely early production example is numbered "28" and is built with a brass frame. The first 400 Henry rifles produced are a mixture of both iron and brass frames. Les Quick's "The Henry Rifle" also records this serial number as a brass frame gun on page 54. The blued octagon barrel is stamped with the correct small style 2-line address. The serial number at the breech has been very professionally renumbered to match the receiver showing little evidence. The German silver front sight has been modified into a low blade. Rear sight is a period replaced semi-buckhorn with a slightly larger than standard dovetailed base. Early small style magazine follower. Walnut perch belly stock with harsh early comb angle, the matching serial number stamped in the channel. Early style rounded heel brass tool trap butt plate also stamped with the serial number on the underside. Butt plate screws and one of the tang screws are matching, others appear to be replacements. CONDITION: Very good overall. Barrel assembly displays an even dark patina with added finish and some mild evidence of older oxidation. Receiver has a rich and mellow mustard patina with expected dings and nicks. Stock appears cleaned and reoiled long ago, fitting slightly shy to metal. Some scattered impressions throughout and chipping at the toe. Good, well defined bore with some black powder abrasions. Fine mechanics. Firing pin is a modern replacement. A very early example of a highly desirable and historic Henry.
Manufacturer
New Haven Arms