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  • Auction Catalog #82
  • Lot #152
Lot #151
Lot #153

Lot 152: Cased Factory Engraved Colt Model 1855 Root Pocket Revolver

Auction Location: Rock Island, IL

Auction Date: May 14, 2021

Lot 152: Cased Factory Engraved Colt Model 1855 Root Pocket Revolver

Auction Location: Rock Island, IL

Auction Date: May 14, 2021

Estimated Price: $6,500 - $9,500

Cased Factory Engraved Colt Model 1855 Root Pocket Revolver

Manufacturer: Colt
Model: Root
Type: Revolver
Gauge: 28 Percussion
Barrel: 3 1/2 inch octagon
Finish: blue
Grip: antique ivory
Stock:
Item Views: 2888
Item Interest: Active
Serial Number:
Catalog Page: 146
Class: Antique
Description:

This is a solid representative example of a factory engraved Colt Root Pocket Revolver that was manufactured in 1861. The revolver features floral scroll and punch dot engraving on the rear sides and upper flats of the barrel, loading lever, frame, hammer sides, and upper and lower (including the butt) of the back strap. The top of the hammer is decorated with a fish scale motif and has six dots which denote the level of embellishment, in this case a high level. The top of the barrel is marked with "COLT'S PATENT/1855" and "ADDRESS COL.COLT/HARTFORD CT. U.S.A." flanked by Maltese crosses. The matching serial number is marked on the butt in a banner, on the cylinder and on the bottom barrel flat. Behind the barrel serial number is the letter "H". The cylinder is roll engraved with the cabin and Indian fight scene and is marked "COLT'S PATENT/26484" and "PATENTED SEPT 10th 1850". Post front and frame notch rear sights, all blue finish and fitted with a smooth one-piece grip. The revolver comes in a rosewood case with five compartments with wine colored velvet lining. In the case is a lacquer stars over eagle/shield over crossed revolvers and "E PLURIBUS UNUM" in a banner powder flask, an "L" shaped screwdriver, two cavity "COLT'S/PATENT" marked iron bullet mold, and a partially full Eley Bros. cap tin.

Rating Definition:

Fine. The revolver retains 40% plus original high polish blue finish with the balance a smooth gray patina. The roll engraved portion of the cylinder has a smooth gray patina. The roll engraved portion of the cylinder has a smooth gray patina and a clear scene. The slightly shrunken grip is very fine with a mellow caramel patina and attractive grain. All of the markings and engraving remain crisp and clear. The action is excellent. There is one screw missing/broken off from the bottom left side of frame. The case is fine with a minor crack across the lid and some crazing of the varnish. The velvet on the bottom has some fraying and staining. The flask is very good with traces of the original lacquer finish remaining and shows numerous small minor dents. The bullet mold is fine with 40% of the original blue, numerous minor dings visible on the block. The screwdriver is very good with some spotting and light oxidation. Overall a very fine and attractive cased factory engraved Colt Model 1855 Root percussion revolver.



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