Approximately 952 of these "saber rifles" were manufactured from September 1861 to March 1862 by J. Henry & Son (James and Granville Henry), with most sold to Phillip S. Justice who likely sold some, or all, of them to the U.S. Ordnance Department, and others were sold to Catasanga Home Guard, who is believed to be a Pennsylvania militia company. J. Henry & Son "saber rifles" are described on pages 361-364 of George D. Moller's book "American Military Shoulder Arms Volume III" with this exact rifle pictured on page 361. Page 361 states, "James Henry's first delivery of the rifles he referred to as the 'saber rifle' to Phillip S. Justice was on September 11, 1861." Features a blade front and long range Enfield-style tangent leaf rear sight graduated "1" to "4" on the right side of the base and "5" to "8" on top of the ladder. "J. HENRY/& SON" marked on both the lock and on the left of the breech. Brass fittings throughout including two barrel bands, a "square" trigger guard, and a Sharps type patch box. "281" marked on the right side of the muzzle. "GDM" (George D. Moller) collection initials marked on the toe of the stock. Includes a period leather sling. Provenance: The George Moller Collection

Very good with gray patina overall, moderate flash pitting, some scattered light pitting, and crisp lock markings. Brass retains an attractive golden aged patina. Stock is also very good with scattered scratches and dents, some chips around the lock and on the sides of the barrel tang, and slightly undersized at the toe with some chips. Mechanically excellent. Included sling is very good with some light age related wear and cracking.