Developed in 1855 and manufactured until 1864, the Colt "New Model Revolving Rifle" introduced a nearly unprecedented rate of fire for a long gun in a world still dominated by single shot muzzleloaders. These revolving rifles saw limited military use, including initially with Berdan's sharpshooters before they were later issued with Sharpes rifles. The revolving rifles had their issues, including an excessive reload time after the discharge of six shots, as well as occasionally discharging all six shots at once which was problematic considering the position of the shooters forehand. This lot includes a very scarce, factory sealed package of five combustible cartridges for the revolving rifle that are wrapped in brown paper with clear Colt labeling in black ink. Also included is a blue paper 1861 pricing list marked in black ink that states that it is for merchants and dealers. The list includes pricing for all of the models available from Colt in 1861 (including the revolving rifles and shotguns) as well as pricing for engraving and accessories.

Fine, the paper packaging of the cartridges shows some mild wear but remains sealed with mostly crisp labeling. The price list is also fine with some fold marks and mild wear. A very rare pair of Colt collectibles that one would search a very long time to add to their collection!