Colt Model 1855 Root revolver, 7th Model, serial 13400, made in 1869 in .31 caliber with a 3.5-inch barrel. The seller grades it very fine, with 50 percent of the original blue finish and a very good cylinder scene still showing. The grips are one-piece ivory, scrimshawed with initials on each side, and the seller believes it was most likely a presentation piece. It is sold on consignment.

A Root with inscribed ivory grips is a collector's revolver for a New Mexico buyer who wants a small Colt with a story attached. The initials give a line of research, and the cylinder scene and half the original blue give it condition. As an antique it ships to the door without the dealer steps that apply to modern handguns, and the consignment note tells you it comes from a private owner.

Key features

• .31 caliber, 3.5-inch barrel, made 1869
• 7th Model Root, very fine condition
• 50 percent original blue, very good cylinder scene
• One-piece ivory grips, scrimshawed initials
• Likely presentation piece, consignment

This antique Colt ships to your door in New Mexico with no FFL transfer.