The Model 1855 Pocket revolver series were manufactured in seven main variations plus sub-variants for barrel lengths, as well as various markings and finishes. They are the only Colt percussion revolvers that used solid frames and were mechanically quite different than the Model 1849 Pocket series that filled the same role. The much larger scale Model 1855 revolving rifles were also based on the same basic design. This attractive Model 1855 is the Model 7 variation and was manufactured in 1868 with the desirable and very rare "ADDRESS COL. COLT/LONDON" barrel address, London proof and view marks on the barrel and cylinder, "L" serial number suffix on the butt, and a smooth grip. "P," "H," and "B" are marked on the grip frame on the bottom right. It has a post front sight, the stagecoach cylinder scene and standard patent marking as well as the retainer screw on the cylinder, matching serial numbers (barrel, cylinder, and butt), and standard groove rear sight. It comes in a wood case with a silver plaque marked "No. 2751. S.S.M. E.F. WILKINSON/5th ROYAL IRISH LANCERS" and cap tin, lead bullet, "COLT'S/PATENT" dual cavity bullet mold with sprue cutter, L-shaped combination screwdriver and nipple wrench, and a bag-shaped Dixon & Sons powder flask. The 5th Royal Irish Lancers served in Indian from November 1863 to December 1874 primarily at Lucknow and Sealcote after which they served in England until 1881 when they returned to Ireland. No matching name was found among records available on the Royal Irish Lancers in the period. If the number listed is a service number, Staff Sergeant Major Wilkinson would have joined in 1883 or 1884 when a percussion revolver would clearly be antiquated. Perhaps the revolver is something he purchased as a memento. The unit was involved in the Nile Expedition and subsequent Mahdist War in 1884 and 1885 during which the British supported the Egyptian Kendive against the Mahdist rebels after telling the Egyptians to give up their claims in Sudan, but British General Charles Gordon defied orders and defended Khartoum and required relief. Winston Churchill served in the war in the 21st Lancers and participated in one of the last British cavalry charges.

Very fine with 85% of the bright original blue finish and case colors, most of the wear concentrated on the cylinder and heel, general minor marks and scratches, crisp marking (white highlighting on the barrel), and distinct cylinder scene. Mechanically needs some work. It does not always lock up properly (it needs a trigger return spring). The grip is also very fine and has some slight chips on the heel. The case and accessories are fine and have moderate storage wear and some missing plaque pins. A very rare London addressed Colt Model 1855 "Root" revolver with case and accessories.