This is an example of a Richards Conversion Colt Model 1860 Army revolver was originally manufactured in 1871. Total production Model 1860 Army Richards conversion revolvers is estimated at approximately 9,000. These revolvers were converted by shaving the recoil shield 3/16 of an inch and installing a Richards breech plate with integral notch sight and loading gate. The recoil shield was machined to provide a straight channel for the loading and ejecting of cartridges. Secondly it called for a rebounding firing pin which in turn forced the hammer to be ground flat in order to strike it properly. The barrel then had to be machined to accept the Richards ejector assembly/loading lever channel filler that is secured with a screw on the left side of the barrel lug. The top of the barrel is marked with the one-line address, the rebated cylinder has the standard roll-engraved Texas Navy battle scene and is marked "COLT'S PATENT No.0827" The left side of the frame is marked "COLTS/PATENT" and "44 CAL." is stamped on the left trigger guard shoulder. The loading gate is numbered "5793". The matching serial number is marked on the barrel, frame, trigger guard and back strap. Fitted with a smooth one-piece varnished walnut grip.

Very good with traces of blue mixed with a dark patina on the metal surfaces. The trigger guard shows 20% silver finish, mainly in protected areas and a dark aged patina on the exposed brass. There is some scattered minor pitting. The cylinder scene is mostly visible and the markings are clear. The grips are good with most of the revarnished finish remaining and showing some lower edge wear and scratches. The action is fine.