An approximate 9,000 Richards conversions were reportedly manufactured in 1871-1878 based on designs by Charles B. Richards; he was also one of the designers of the Colt Single Action Army. This specific revolver is one of the revolvers ordered by the U.S. Government. It was assembled by Colt using parts from surplus 1860 Colt Army revolvers and uses a second number, "1083", next to the mixed numbers. It has a German silver blade front sight, the New York barrel address (partially double stamped), standard cylinder scene, "COLTS/PATENT" (double stamped) on the left side of the frame, a punched "H" on the heel of the butt, "44 CAL" on the left side of the trigger guard and "A" (Ainsworth military) underneath, integral notch rear sight on the conversion ring, and matching conversion serial numbers on the cylinder, barrel, frame, trigger guard, back strap loading gate, conversion ring, and ejector housing. This pistol falls into the first serial number range.

Fine. The period retailer replated barrel and back strap are covered in a mottled grey and brown patina with some spots of pitting and dings. The cylinder and breech plate retain 40% of their period retailer replated nickel finish with a smooth grey and brown patina on the balance. Frame retains 60% of the same nickel finish with the majority of that being on the left side and a mostly smooth grey and brown patina on the left side. The trigger guard retains 80% of the nickel finish with an attractive aged patina on the exposed brass. Grips are good with most of the original varnish remaining, high edge wear, and pinhole on the bottom of each grip panel. Mechanically fine.