This is an example of a Colt Model 1860 Richards-Mason conversion. Total production of the Model 1860 Richards-Mason Revolvers is estimated to have been about 2,100. The Model 1860 Richards-Mason Revolver is one of the scarcest Colt cartridge conversion revolvers. The revolver has the distinctive breech plate without a rear sight and a loading gate with external spring marked "1217" and a hammer with the added centerfire pin and notch rear sight. The barrel lug is a smaller lug, much different in appearance to the standard 1860 Army lug and the slot has been filled. The top of the barrel has the one line address, two line patent dates on the left side of the frame and "44 CAL" on the left trigger guard shoulder. All of the visible serial numbers match. Fitted with a smooth one-piece ivory grip.

Good. The crisp metal surfaces are bright with no remaining finish. There is a small amount of minor pitting on the barrel and frame. The markings and cylinder scene are clear. The attractive grip is very fine with some minor age cracking and an attractive grain and color. The action is fine.