Henry's were manufactured in 1860-1866, and half of them are believed to have been used by Union soldiers, mostly purchased by the men themselves, some using reenlistment bonuses. "That damned Yankee rifle that can be loaded on Sunday and fired all week" was one of the most advanced firearms of the war. This Henry rifle is made up of two sets of original components, was factory engraved by Samuel J. Hoggson (one of New Haven's preferred engravers), and is pictured and described on p. 43 of "The Winchester Book" by George Madis. This rifle is also pictured on p. 23 of "Winchester Engraving" by R.L. Wilson, where it is also listed by serial number "1888". The barrel, stock, buttplate, buttplate screws, and long upper tang screw all bear the serial number "1888", which dates to 1863 production. The rifle is listed in the previously mentioned book by this serial number. The left side of the lower tang of the receiver bears the serial number "8212", which dates to 1865 production, and an "E" stamp signifying the engraving is on the left of the upper tang. The engraving is noted as being one of Hoggson's favorite patterns a doe jumping a fence on the left, extensive floral scroll, and decorative borders. The rear sight is a period replaced tall buckhorn and the bolt assembly is absent. A five-piece metal cleaning rod is included in the butt trap. Provenance: The Robert N. Roningen Collection

Very good as assembled with all of the parts showing generally an attractive patina and consistent wear indicating that the two sets of parts have likely been assembled together for some time. There are some scattered small patches of light pitting on iron components, some minor scratches/gouges on the brass, and the engraving remains mostly crisp. The stock is also very good with some scattered minor handling marks. The bolt and firing pin assembly are absent, otherwise mechanically functions.