Because you could fire it in repetition without having to reload it after each shot, the way you had to with muzzleloaders.
500 or so yards
The rifle was a Henry repeater.
By checking the serial number against published data.
Try ebay.
Boots and Saddles - 1957 The Repeater Rifle 1-2 was released on: USA: 26 September 1957
Union forces had privately purchased them. Rebel forces used captured repeating rifles. The repeater, was considered the "assault rifle" of the Civil War. Just as the M16 assault rifle replaced the M14 rifle in Vietnam.
50-126
WHICH Henry? The antique Henry rifle made in the 1860's or the current Henry Repeating Arms Co rifle?
The Stevens model number 70 Visible repeater was made from 1912-1931.
The Henry Rifle called a Golden Boy is valued approximately 475.00 USD JWM Texas These are made in Brooklyn NY USA
The Hahn Super Repeater was marketed by Crosman, who also furnished air rifles to Sears. Possible. New Answer 3/30/2008 Yes Crosman made the same rifle (Hahn Super Repeater Model 166) for Sears under the JC Higgins name. Value Apx: 100%=$125 to 60%=$45
100-300 or so