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LOT 3258
Exceptionally Fine Cased London Address Colt Model 1855
Sidehammer “Root” Percussion Pocket Revolver - Serial no. 12196,
31 cal., 3 1/2 inch round bbl., blue finish, deluxe factory walnut grips. This
revolver is a “7th Model” Colt Model 1855 “Root” revolver with the two-
stage rounded barrel, Stagecoach cylinder scene, and cylinder side screw.
It was sent to Colt’s London Agency c. 1868 and has the two-line “ADDRESS
COL COLT/LONDON” barrel marking rarely seen on the Model 1855 Pockets.
It interestingly has serial number “12196” along with an “E” above and “L”
below on the butt while the cylinder is numbered “12195.” Given the same
exceptional matching condition throughout, it is believed the cylinder has
been with the revolver since it was relatively new. The revolver features
London proofmarks on the barrel and cylinder and is marked “31 CAL” on
the frame under the hammer and is fitted with a deluxe, figured walnut
grip with a rich piano varnish finish. It comes in an English oak case with
brass medallion and screws, green baize lining, large Colt directions label
inside the lid, Eley Bros. cap tin marked for Colt’s Belt & Pocket Pistols,
cleaning rod with steel end cap, three individual Eley skin cartridges, lead
balls and bullets, Dixon Colt’s Pocket flask, L-shaped combination tool,
L-shaped screwdriver, and a blued iron mold.
CONDITION: Exceptionally fine. 95% bright original high polish blue
remains overall with some slight fading in spots on the barrel, cylinder, and
back strap. The majority of the vibrant original case colors remain on the
loading lever and hammer. The front sight is slightly bent and loose. The
cylinder scene and markings remain crisp. The very nicely figured deluxe
fancy walnut grip is excellent and has only faint handling and storage
marks. Mechanically excellent. The case is fine and has mild age and storage
related wear. The accessories are all very fine to excellent and have minimal
storage wear. Overall, this is a truly extraordinary cased set! This has to be
one of the finest London “Roots” in existence.
Provenance: The George S. Lewis Jr. Collection.
Estimate: 9,500 - 15,000
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