April 24-25, 2019 Extraordinary, Sporting, & Collector Firearms
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/25/2019
With overlapping serial numbers the actual date of manufacture is difficult to determine. The rare First Model 1855 .56 caliber Military rifle was purchased and utilized during the US Civil War by several states and militia units including Berdan's Sharpshooters and the famed Ninth Illinois regiment. Some where even used by Italian freedom fighter Garibaldi in 1859. This example, serial number 618, with single line "COL.COLT HARTFORD CT U.S.A." address on top of large frame and 5 shot fluted cylinder. Military pattern full length forestock with walnut military pattern butt with steel butt plat and sling swivels. Fixed windage adjustable rear sight and post front sight for use with angular bayonet. Total production of the Military model is less than 9000.The model 1855 is a scarce variation and is rarely found in any condition. The use of these rifles in actual combat during the Civil War was very limited and little is known of their performance. The possibility of having a five shot repeating rifle in the massive .56 caliber, had to be impressive to say the least. CONDITION. Good and fully functioning. The bore is very good with strong rifling and good grooves. The cylinder has all nipples present with very light pitting in the flutes. The barrel has typical period light pitting in several areas but has a very pleasant even patina. The two piece walnut stocks are slightly undersized from age and use and are very dry. No major distress is evident with several minor chips missing along barrel edge and a small shrinkage crack at wrist. The action functions properly however gun was not disassembled for further inspection. Serial number 618 is found on bottom of frame while number 4542 is found on the lower tang. This was obviously a field swap from another rifle as it has the proper 56 caliber marking on the trigger guard. Overall a very good example of one of Colt's least common military arms.
Caliber/Bore
.56 Percussion
Model
1855 Revolving Rifle