New Haven Arms Company Henry 1860 US Civil War Era 1st DC Cavalry
SOLD FOR: $14,025.00
LSB#:LSB012825LSB001
Make: New Haven Arms Co.
Model: 1860 Henry Rifle
Serial Number: 1955
Year of Manufacture: Circa June 1863
Caliber: .44 Henry Rimfire
Action Type: Lever Action with Slotted Full-Length Tubular Magazine
Markings: The top of the barrel is marked “HENRY’S PATENT OCT. 16, 1860 / MANUFACT’D BY THE NEW HAVEN ARMS CO. NEW HAVEN, CT.” (early-style marking). The serial number “1955” is stamped on the receiver, the left side of the lower tang, the inside of the buttplate at the toe, and the top tang inlet of the stock. The serial number is also stamped on the buttplate and stock mounting screws. The bottom tang bears Benjamin Tyler Henry’s “H” personal inspection mark.
Barrel Length: 24” Octagonal
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a German silver blade in a collar screw-set to the barrel at the muzzle end. The rear sight is a folding ladder-style sight. When folded down, it presents a “V”-notch, and when folded up, the ladder features a “V”-notch slider and is graduated from “2” to “8” in 100-yard increments, with a notch at the top of the ladder marked “90.”
Stock Configuration & Condition: The rifle has a one-piece smooth walnut stock with a straight wrist and straight comb. The buttplate is a second-style brass crescent with a trapdoor over a storage compartment (the compartment is empty). The stock has light nicks, scuffs, and some small scratches consistent with its age. There are no chips or cracks. The brass buttplate has scattered light nicks and scratches and has developed a mustard patina with the crystalline appearance of aged brass. The LOP measures 13 3/8” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. Overall, the stock is in Excellent condition as Antique.
Type of Finish: The barrel and lever have been browned. The hammer and trigger are case colored. The receiver, carrier, and magazine follower are brass.
Finish Originality: Not Original
Bore Condition: The bore is semi-bright, with sharp rifling and some light erosion, and minor pitting scattered throughout. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates a 6 or 7 out of 10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 25% of its current finish. The steel components have developed a light patina. The brass receiver displays a rich mustard patina with a crystalline appearance consistent with aged brass. There are scattered light nicks and scratches throughout the rifle. The screw heads range from sharp to tool-marked but remain functional. The action shows wear consistent with operational use, and the markings remain clear and legible. Overall, this rifle is in Very Good to Fine condition as an Antique.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The hammer does not have a half-cock safety. We have not fired this rifle. As with all antique firearms, a thorough cleaning and inspection are recommended before use.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None
Our Assessment:
The Henry Model 1860 lever action rifle is one of the most iconic firearms of the Civil War era, and this example, serial number 1955, is squarely within the 1st District of Columbia Cavalry serial number range. Henry rifles were prized by Union soldiers for their rapid-fire capability, capable of discharging 16 rounds in 11 seconds, making them devastatingly effective compared to the muzzleloading arms of the era.
This rifle was manufactured in June 1863 and falls in the range of rifles believed to have been issued to the 1st DC Cavalry. These rifles were not Ordnance Department inspected but were purchased directly from New Haven Arms and issued to the unit. The “H” personal inspection mark of Benjamin Tyler Henry, located on the bottom tang, further authenticates this rifle as a genuine example of his craftsmanship.
The rifle remains in very good condition for its age, with matching serialized parts, including the stock and screws. The stock is free of chips or cracks, and the brass receiver displays a beautiful aged patina. The barrel and lever have been refinished, but the rifle retains much of its original charm. The mechanics remain functional, with the action operating properly.
This Henry rifle is not only a highly collectible firearm but also a piece of American history. With its association to the 1st DC Cavalry and its historical importance as one of the first repeating rifles, this is a rare and valuable addition to any collection of Civil War-era arms or early lever-action rifles. Whether displayed as a historical artifact or appreciated for its groundbreaking design, this Henry Model 1860 is a remarkable and highly desirable firearm. So bid high and bid firm. I highly encourage you to take a look at the condition in our high-quality photos. Good luck with your bid. -K.F.
