The Colt Model 1855 "Root" revolvers were designed by Samuel Colt and were nicknamed by collectors after his factory foreman and superintendent Elisha K. Root. Colt referred to them as the "New Model Revolving Pocket Pistols." They are the only Colt percussion revolvers to feature a solid frame and spur trigger. They certainly rank among the most attractive of all American percussion pocket pistols. Nonetheless, production was limited to only around 30,000 in the diminutive .28 caliber in 1855-1861 and another 14,000 in .31 caliber in 1860-1870 compared to over 300,000 of the larger Model 1849 Pocket revolvers. Given their attractive and distinctive style, multiple variations, and rarity, these revolvers are highly sought after by collectors today. As a cadet at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, a young George Armstrong Custer posed with his "Root" revolver just prior to the Civil War. This "Model 2" variant was manufactured in 1856 with an octagon barrel with cone front sight and the pointing hand motif ahead of the patent and Hartford address, cylinder with the cabin and Indian scene, varnished one-piece grip, and matching serial numbers on the barrel, butt, and cylinder. The wood case contains an eagle powder flask, brass "COLT'S/PATENT" double cavity bullet mold, Eley cap tin, a cleaning rod, L-shaped screwdriver, and a key. Provenance: The Norm Vegely Collection