A nice example of a James Henry and Son Minie rifle. This arm has the Enfield-style tangent leaf site. It is noted in George Moller's book that the first 108 rifles produced were equipped with a standing leaf sight and were sold to Phillip S. Justice. George Moller also noted that Henry later produced 137 additional rifles that were equipped with the Enfield-style rear sights during July and August 1861, which were also sold to Phillip Justice. Company records also indicate that another 40 rifles were sold to a Pennsylvania militia company.

The lock is nicely marked J.Henry and Son in 2 vertical lines behind the hammer. J. Henry is visible on the barrel flat. Of particular interest is that this example has been machined an additional 3 inches back to accept the socket bayonet. Other J.Henry Minie rifles do not have this machining. The bayonet lug on top of the barrel is numbered 17. The .58 caliber bore is fine and retains the original 4-groove rifling. The brass butt-plate, barrel bands, trigger guard, nose cap, and patch box have a nice mustard patina and display well. The iron parts show evidence of having been cleaned years ago and exhibit a pleasant gunmetal gray appearance. The wood is in excellent condition and free from any cracks or blemishes. The mechanical action is tight and functions properly.