The Colt Model 1855 Sidehammer Pocket Revolver was the only handgun designed by Samuel Colt using a solid frame and was nicknamed after his foreman and superintendent Elisha K. Root who took over as the company president after Colt's death. They were manufactured first in .28 caliber and then in .31 caliber and are certainly among the finest pocket handguns of the era. Only approximately 14,000 of the .31 caliber Model 1855 Pocket Revolvers were manufactured c. 1860-1870 across multiple variations. This "Model 5" variant was manufactured in 1861 with a two-stage barrel with a cone front sight and "ADDRESS COL. COLT/NEW-YORK U.S.A" marking, fluted cylinder with "PATENTED SEPT. 10th 1850" in one of the flutes, varnished one-piece grip, and matching serial numbers visible on the bottom of the barrel and butt. The case contains an eagle pattern powder flask, blued Colt's patent ball/bullet mold, and a cartridge pack.

Exceptionally fine with 85% plus original bright blue finish, some minor fading mainly at the edges and back strap, bright original case colors, and some minor marks and scratches. The grip is excellent and has most of the original varnish remaining, a slight chip at the heel on the left, and a few minor handling and storage marks. Mechanically excellent. The case is fine and has mild age and storage related wear. The slightly dented flask is very fine, and the bullet mold is excellent with 97% strong original blue finish and minor wear.