This is a transitional variant between the standard Richards and Richards-Mason conversion. They were built around 1877-1878 with the newer Richards-Mason style conversion plate and hammer but still used the older Richards conversion type ejector and barrel assembly. 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 Colt's percussion revolvers in the Civil War. The serial number dates to 1871 within the percussion Model 1860 Army serial number range. The revolver 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, and back strap.

Fine with 70% plus vibrant case colors, 50% original blue finish, 20% original silver plating, aged patina on the exposed brass, gray and brown patina on the balance, general light scratches, mild edge wear, and minor oxidation. The refinished grip has a repaired crack on the upper left and, otherwise, is very good and has a few light scratches and dings and glossy varnish. Mechanically excellent.