Only an estimated 500 of these 20 gauge small frame revolving shotguns were manufactured c. 1860-1863 based on the upscaled Model 1855 Pocket design making this classic shotgun among the scarcest Colt percussion firearms. On page 201 of "The Book of Colt Firearms," R.L. Wilson notes that these 20 gauge shotguns are "rare in any length but 27" inches and that most have the two-line, two-block patent and address markings on the breech. The barrel has a nickel-silver bead front sight and an under-rib with two pipes holding the main section of the cleaning rod. The top strap groove has "COL. COLT HARTFORD CT. U.S.A." The left side of the frame and one of the cylinder flutes have the patent markings. The matching serial number is visible on the bottom of the frame and toe of the buttplate. It is mounted with a smooth forearm with German silver forend cap and escutcheons and a multi-point checkered buttstock with blued steel shotgun buttplate. Provenance: The George S. Lewis Jr. Collection

Excellent with 98% original brown finish on the barrel, 90% bright original high polish blue on the frame with some flaking areas exhibiting smooth brown patina, and generally only light age and storage related wear. The wood is also excellent and has crisp checkering, a few minor scratches and dings, and attractive figure, especially on the left side of the butt. Mechanically fine.