Very presentable, British proofed, Colt Model 1855 “Root” side hammer, five shot revolving saddle ring carbine s/n 10867 in .56 calibre with 21 inch round barrel with semi-octagonal breech. The top-strap bears the one-line address “COL. COLT HARTFORD CT. U.S.A.”. It has a varnished chequered walnut straight stock, with crescent-shaped steel butt-plate. The fully fluted five-shot cylinder, bears British proof-marks within each flute. The cylinder is marked “Patented Sept 10th 1850”. There are faint British proofs stamped on the semi octagonal breech end of the barrel. The front sight is made of brass and at the rear there are three folding leaf sights, graduated from 100, 300, 500 and 600 yards, dove-tailed into the barrel, towards the breech. The carbine is numbered 10867 on the long brass tang to the rear of the trigger-guard and also on the underside of the barrel.

About 4,435 of these Colt revolving carbines were produced by the Colt’s Manufacturing Company from 1856 through to 1864. This rare Colt “British Carbine”, fits the time frame of the Crimea War (1853 to 1856) and the Indian Mutiny (1857 to 1858).

Very good to fine condition, nice patina finish, with strong traces of original finish and good smooth action.