Experts believe that most of the 7,500 Henry rifles manufactured between April 1862 and January 1865 were purchased for use in the Civil War and saw some military service. Aside from 900 rifles purchased by the Ordnance Department in 1863-1864 to arm the 1st D.C. Cavalry Regiment, nearly all Henry rifles used in the Civil War were privately purchased by soldiers who wanted to have the most advanced firearm available and take advantage of the sustained firepower of a 15-shot magazine rifle. As a result, the great majority of the Henry rifles under serial number 7,500 show moderate to heavy wear. Henry rifles, like this example, with any original finish remaining are becoming more difficult to encounter. This example is certainly in above average condition. The rifle was manufactured by the New Haven Arms Company in May 1863. Early features include the first style brass receiver with rear sight dovetail and brass buttplate with rounded heel. The front sight is the later style with square back. The folding ladder rear sight is graduated to 900 yards. The receiver sight dovetail is empty. The top barrel flat carries the two-line patent dates/address marking ahead of the rear sight and the serial number at the breech. Matching serial numbers appear on the barrel, tang screws, left side of the lower tang, stock inlet, buttplate screws, and buttplate. The rifle has a sling swivel and loop for sling hook which were extra cost features on early Henry rifles.

Fine. The barrel and magazine tube retain 40% plus original blue finish with a smooth brown patina mixed with spotting on the balance. The exceptionally fine brass has a mellowed, attractively aged appearance. The receiver has tight fitting side plates. The lever has been repaired during period of use with exposed joint visible beneath trigger. The stock is also fine with minor handling marks and a stress line at the buttplate tang. Mechanically excellent.