Only around 2,100 of these "conversions" were manufactured around 1877-1878 using a mixture of remaining Model 1860 Army parts and newly manufactured components. They were manufactured alongside the ever popular Colt Single Action Army as a way for Colt to use remaining parts and tooling on hand and also offered a more economical choice to buyers that had an overall style familiar to many who had used them in the Civil War. The serial number dates to 1871 within the Model 1860 Army serial number range and features a German silver blade front sight, the one-line "U.S. AMERICA" barrel address, the two-line 1871 and 1872 patent marking over the original "COLTS/PATENT" marking on the left side of the frame, standard cylinder roll scene, "44 CAL" on the left side of the trigger guard, and matching serial numbers on the barrel, frame, cylinder, loading gate, trigger guard, back strap, and grip inlet.

Fine with 30% original blue finish and case colors, traces of original silver plating, aged patina on the brass and silver, some light oxidation and pitting, and light scratches and marks. The revarnished grip is very good and has mild handling and edge wear including a few hammer marks. Mechanically excellent. Overall a fine Richards-Mason revolver in better condition than most. Many of these revolvers saw hard use on the western frontier in the last quarter of the 19th century.