Fellow SharpShooters

Dan Wambaugh found this Colt-Root repeating rifle that will be offered for sale by Rock Island this coming October. Here is a description of the piece:

Military Percussion Revolving Rifle
Auction Date: October 4, 2023
Estimated Price: $3,000 -5,000

Colt Model 1855 Full Stock Military Percussion Revolving Rifle
Manufacturer: Colt
Model: 1855-Rifle
Type: Rifle
Gauge: 56
Barrel: 37 1/2 inch part octagon
Finish: blue
Grip:Stock: walnut
Item Views: 189
Item Interest: Average
Serial Number:83xx

Class: Antique
Rating: OF - FAIR- some major parts replaced; minor replacement parts may be required; metal rusted, may be lightly pitted all over, vigorously cleaned; rounded edges of metal and wood; principal lettering, numerals and design on metal partly obliterated; wood scratched, bruised, cracked or repaired where broken; in fair working order or can be easily repaired and placed in working order.
NPRF - NON-PROFESSIONALLY REFINISHED/COLD BLUE, ETC.

Description: This is an example of a very desirable Colt Model 1855 Military Rifle manufactured from 1856 to 1864 with a total production of approximately 9,310. Re-welded frame and cylinder chambers restoring the gun which had blown up in a catastrophic failure.

It is highly unlikely this was one of the USSS Colts that allegedly exploded at Camp of Instruction, as I doubt Col. Colt would be anxious to have such a rifle returned to his factory, let alone devote time and resources to resurrect a worthless gun. My fellow USSS researchers have bandied about our own pet theories on how this valuable piece of history met its fate. However, we suspect the final price will be significantly less than the estimate.

Here is the link: https://www.rockislandauction.com/detai ... ving-rifle

Bill Skillman
Michigan Companies
Berdan Sharpshooters Survivors Association

Thanks for posting that Bill!

A revolving rifle is definitely on my list, even though I know that I probably will never be able to afford one.

Thanks,
Mike

_________________
Mike Thomas

140th PVI, Co A
https://www.facebook.com/140pvi/

1st USSS, Co H
http://nyberdans.wix.com/nyberdans

Fellow Sharpshooters,

The Rock Island auction is now history, and I have to retract my initial comment that the Colt-Root repeating rifle offered would not sell for the estimated price ($3000-5000). The final and accepted bid was $5,581. I would like to think the purchaser was able to trace the serial number to a specific soldier/trooper/sharpshooter to preserve this Colt for their, and future generations, enjoyment.

Bill Skillman
Michigan Companies
Berdan Sharpshooters Survivors Association