Manufactured circa 1856-1864. The Model 1855 was part of a line of revolver-type long arms which enjoyed some success, and in many ways was ahead of its time. According to the production numbers on page 182 of "The Book of Colt Firearms" by Wilson and Sutherlan, approximately 800 total Model 1855 Sporting Rifles were manufactured in .44 caliber, and of those only 50 were made in .44 caliber with a 21 inch barrel, as seen on this example. The top strap is marked "{COLT'S PT./1856}" and "{ADDRESS COL. COLT/HARTFORD, CT. U.S.A.}". The matching serial number is marked on the bottom of the barrel, inside of the forearm channel, frame, rear of the cylinder, cylinder retaining pin, trigger guard tang, on the toe of the buttplate, and handwritten in black ink inside the lower tang mortise of the buttstock. The brass blade is missing from the front sight, the dovetailed base remains, the rear sight is the correct three-leaf folding variation with 100, 300 and 600 yards graduations. All blue finish, iron cleaning rod and mounted with a varnished full length forearm with brass end cap, sling swivel on the rear barrel band and straight grip stock with a crescent buttplate, with compartment and a sling swivel. A circular collection tag stamped "0184" is hanging from the trigger guard.

Fine, retains 60% plus original blue finish with smooth brown patina and freckling on the balance, some light flash pitting around the percussion nipples, and defined markings and edges in the metal overall. The front barrel band is loose. The wood is also fine with scattered scratches and dents, and defined edges. Mechanically excellent.