Factory engraved Henry rifles are among the most desirable of all antique firearms thanks to their important place in the development of lever action firearms and the Winchester Repeating Arms Co. as well as their place in the history of the American Civil War, the West, and popular culture. The factory engraved rifles represent only a small percentage of the already scarce original Henry rifles and are highly sought after by collectors. This attractive rifle was manufactured in 1864 featured the classic factory scroll and floral engraving patterns with beaded backgrounds of Samuel J. Hoggson, including a running deer on the left side plate. Both sides of the receiver feature Hoggson’s signature large flower blossom. The engraving also extends to the tang of the buttplate which has the rounded heel and trap (cleaning rod not included). The rifle is pictured and identified in R.L. Wilson's "The Book of Winchester Engraving" on page viii where the embellishment is noted as an example of the "standard engraving style." Additional features include: a late style square back German silver blade front sight, notch and ladder rear sight with the 900 yard top notch, no second rear sight dovetail on the frame, the two-line patent/address legend ahead of the rear sight, and sling mounts on the left side of the barrel and stock. Matching serial number “4522” appears on the barrel, left side of the lower tang, stock inlet, buttplate, and both buttplate screws. The replaced lower tang screw has the number “1947.” The varnished stock has highly attractive figure. Provenance: The Woody Frey Collection; The Ray Bentley Collection; The Collection of David L. DeLullo

Fine. The barrel and magazine tube have an attractive crisp brown-gray patina. The receiver retains 70% age darkened original silver plating. 30% age darkened original silver plating remains on the buttplate. The engraving is crisp. The stock is very fine with a hairline crack at the upper tang, dings, scratches, and most of the original varnish remaining. An attractive Civil War era factory engraved Henry rifle that will bring added dimension to any lever action collection.