Manufactured 1856-1864. Part of a line of revolver-type long arms which enjoyed some success, but in many ways was ahead of its time. The top strap is marked "COL. COLT HARTFORD CT. U.S.A." and the left side of the frame is marked "COLT'S PATENT / NOV 24 th 1857". One of the cylinder flutes is marked "PATENTED SEPT. 10th 1850". The matching serial number is marked on the bottom of the frame, trigger guard tang and on the toe of the buttplate. Blade front and two leaf folding rear sight, no bayonet provisions, iron ramrod, two barrel bands with a sling swivel on the rear band, 5-shot fully fluted cylinder with under barrel racket type loading lever, smooth trigger and checkered side mounted hammer. Full forearm with brass end cap and straight grip stock with sling swivel mounted on the lower tang and iron buttplate with compartment (rod extension not included). The Ordnance Department purchased a substantial number of Model 1855 Military Revolving Rifles from dealers, but it is uncertain if this is one of those. Complete with an original leather sling.

Fair. The metal surfaces have a smooth brownish gray patina. There are patches of red rust present on the frame under the hammer, on the hammer head and around the hammer cut-out. The hammer screw is missing. The wood has been refinished and remains fair with a small area of sanded scuffs near the toe and overall a few minor handling marks. The action needs work, the hammer doesn't hold a full cock and the cylinder is frozen. The frame marking is faded a bit, but readable and the top strap marking is clear.