This is a solid representative example of an engraved Colt Model 2, 1855 Side Hammer Revolver that was manufactured in 1861. The revolver has a .28 caliber octagon barrel with second pattern, pointing hand address, un-fluted five-shot cylinder and round loading lever with octagon base. The revolver is silver plated and decorated with expertly cut German style scroll engraving on a punch dot background. The engraving appears to be from the Gustave Young shop. (The deluxe engraved hammer has five dots, signifying much work). The highly figured walnut grips have a varnished piano finish. The brass bound rosewood case is inlaid with a brass escutcheon engraved with the initials "BA" (history unknown). The American style case is lined with red velvet and has five compartments that contain: (1) a silver plated steel two-cavity Colt bullet mold, (2) a 100-cap Eley tin of percussion caps with green label, (3) a silver-plated fluted powder flask, (4) an L-shaped screwdriver and (5) a wood handled screwdriver. In addition to the "pointing hand" barrel marking, the revolver has the serial number, "26528", located on the underside of the barrel in an engraved oval panel on the cylinder and in a banner on the bottom of the grip strap. The revolver lacks the usual roll-engraved Indian and cabin cylinder scene and is decorated with delicate scroll and punch dot engraving between the chambers. The bullet mold is marked, "COLTS/PATENT" on the sprue cutter. The green paper "ELEY BROs" label on the cap tin specifies that the caps are for "COLT'S Pt./Belt and Pocket/PISTOLS".

Very fine as replated. The revolver retains 98% of the silver-plated finish. Most of the finish wear is confined to the engraved portion of the cylinder, the lower left barrel flat and edges of the frame. The markings and engraved surfaces are sharp. The professionally refinished grip is also very fine with most of the piano-finish. The revarnished case exterior is very good with minor storage wear. The interior is fine. The lining has faded and has some minor compression marks and oil stains and only one minor tear. The cap tin is very fine. The replated bullet mold is tarnished and has some age spots but is very good. The non-standard replated powder flask is fine with some tarnish on the body and nearly all the niter blue on the spring. The screw driver is good with most of the blue intact and some minor rust spots. An attractive factory engraved Colt Model 1855 Side Hammer Revolver.