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, especially high condition examples like this one. This beautiful rifle was manufactured in 1864 and featured the classic factory scroll and floral engraving patterns with beaded backgrounds of Samuel J. Hoggson; however, rather than the more common deer or dog motifs on the left side plate, it features a nicely detailed reposed stylish lion which may have been engraved specially for someone of English ancestry. This unusual motif plus the rifle's high condition certainly places it in the upper echelon of Henry rifles. The engraving also extends to the tang of the buttplate which has the point heel standard on later production Henry rifles. Additional later production features include: a flat back German silver blade front sight, notch and ladder rear sight with stop screw below the 900 yard top notch, no second rear sight dovetail on the frame, all serifed letters in the two-line address and patent marking on the barrel, larger diameter magazine follower and beveled follower cut, and sling mounts on the left side of the barrel and stock. The serial number is marked on the top of the barrel at the breech, and the "W" inspection mark of Oliver F. Winchester is stamped between the lever latch and rear screw on the lower tang. The stock has attractive figure visible in the wrist. Provenance: The Mac McCroskie Collection

Exceptionally fine. The barrel retains 50% original blue finish remaining on the barrel, strongest in the muzzle section and grooves between the barrel and magazine, smooth brown patina on the balance, crisp markings, and some minor nicks and dings. The action and buttplate have a very attractive, untouched, aged patina and retain crisp engraving with high contrast, minor edge wear, and tight joints. The hammer retains 60% of the original case colors and is lightly worn bright on the right side. The lever and trigger display a smooth brown, and the spring at the trigger retains 75% plus of the bright original niter blue finish. The stock is very fine and has the noted attractive figure mainly running along the left side of the wrist, attractive grain, smooth finish, some light dings and scratches, a minor dent on the bottom, a circular splotch, and some very faint checks. Mechanically excellent. This is a truly extraordinary factory engraved Henry rifle with significant original finish, crisp engraving including the unusual lion motif, and overall stunning appearance.