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LOT 278
Excellent Cased Colt Model 1855 “Root” Model 3 Percussion Pocket
Revolver - Serial no. 27267, 28 cal., 3 1/2 inch octagon bbl., blue finish,
walnut grips. This .28 caliber Model 3 variant of Colt’s Model 1855 “Root”
revolver series was manufactured in 1861, with approximately 5,000
Model 3 revolvers made in the reported 25001-30000 serial range, as the
last model of these revolvers in .28 caliber, per page 154 of “The Book of
Colt Firearms” (1971 publication) by Sutherland and Wilson. The Model
3 is in .28 caliber, whereas the 3A variant is in .31 caliber. The top of the
barrel is marked “+COLT’S PT./1855+” followed by “ADDRESS COL. COLT/
HARTFORD CT. U.S.A.+” without pointing hand motif. Five shot fluted
cylinder marked “PATENTED SEPT. 10th 1850”. Brass pin front sight with
notched rear sight. The hammer is mounted on the right side of the frame,
with a spur trigger and smooth varnished grips. Matching serial number
marked on the barrel and butt. Includes a partitioned walnut case with
blue felt lined interior containing a double sided eagle powder flask, brass
two cavity bullet mold marked “F” on the side and “COLT’S/PATENT” on the
sprue cutter, screwdriver, UMC cap tin, one 5-count pack of combustible
Colt Pocket cartridges, key, and lead balls.
CONDITION: Excellent, retains 95% plus bright original high polish blue
finish on the barrel and frame, with bright blue screws, 80% plus on the
cylinder with flaking to smooth brown patina on the balance, strong
original case colors on the loading lever with the hammer showing a
smooth gray, some light flash corrosion, and sharp barrel markings. Grip
is also excellent, with nearly all of the original glossy piano varnish finish,
minimal handling marks, tight fitment and crisp edges. Mechanically
excellent. Case is fine, with refinished exterior, and fine lining. The
accessories are fine to very fine.
Provenance: The George S. Lewis Jr. Collection.
Estimate: 11,000 - 16,000