This Model 2 variant of Samuel Colt's distinctive "New Model Revolving Pocket Pistol" dates to 1857 and features fascinating cut-aways to demonstrate the inner workings of the revolver's mechanisms. This is certainly an interesting piece to study and such pieces were used to demonstrate the mechanisms of firearms designs, and advertisements in the 19th century sometimes included cut-away illustrations for similar purposes. A small number of factory cutaways are known around this serial number range, including 17236 which was in the factory collection as well as 17117 and 17170. No. 6475 in the Autry Museum of the American West is also a factory cutaway of the same style. The barrel features a brass cone front sight and the pointing hand and "+COLT'S PT./1855" and "+ADDRESS COL. COLT/HARTFORD CT. U.S.A.+" markings on top, a long channel along the left side allowing a view at the rifled bore, and the serial number on the underside. The loading lever arm has a small channel to show the spring latch mechanism. The cylinder has the "cabin and Indian" scene, one uncut chamber, and a larger window displaying the interior of two chambers as well as the arbor pin. Even the nipples which are integral to the cylinder are cutaway demonstrating how the flash is transmitted from the caps through narrow channels into the chambers to ignite the powder. The frame has windows on each side revealing the threads on the breech end of the barrel, a window showing the loading lever ratchet and corresponding grooves, additional windows showing the inner-workings of the action, and the serial number on the butt. The grip also has cutaway sections allowing a view of the mainspring and grip screw. The case contains an Eley Bros. cap tin, ball/bullet mold, eagle pattern flask, L-shaped screwdriver, and key.

Very fine with 80% plus original blue finish with fading mostly on the back strap, nearly all of the bright original case colors on the hammer, crisp markings and remaining sections of the cylinder scene, and generally minimal age and storage related wear. The grip retains nearly all of the original finish and has a chip at the heel and minor scratches and dings. Mechanically fine. The case and accessories are fine with mild wear. While there are already many variations of the "Root" to collect, the factory cutaways are the rarest with only a very small number known and make an excellent addition to antique Colt collection.