This is an exceptional example of a Colt Model 1860 Army revolver that has been factory fitted with a Richards conversion unit. Total production of Model 1860 Army Richards conversion revolvers is estimated at approximately 9,000 in 1871-1878. It is theorized that these late conversions were all based on using up the leftover 1860 percussion revolvers that still remained at the Colt factory. This type of conversion was performed by supplying a new cylinder in the Colt 44 CF cartridge, fitting it with a new cylinder ring in front of the recoil shield and installing a new loading gate on the frame with an internal spring. The loading lever has been replaced with an ejector housing on the right side of the barrel lug which has the cross-hatched ejector head. The conversion breech plate has a firing pin and integral rear sight. The hammer face is milled flat, and the spur is cross-hatched with a border. The top of the barrel is marked "-ADDRESS COL. SAML COLT NEW-YORK U.S. AMERICA-", the left side of the frame is marked "COLTS/PATENT", and the left trigger guard shoulder is marked "44 CAL". The cylinder is roll engraved with the Texas Navy scene and marked "COLT'S PATENT No. 392". The assembly number "1135" is on the left side of the breech plate and loading lever. Visible matching serial numbers are on the barrel, frame, trigger guard, back strap and cylinder.

Exceptionally fine. The barrel and back strap retain 80% bright original high polished blue finish and the cylinder retains 40% plus bright original high polished blue finish with the balance a smooth gray patina. Nearly all of the crisp cylinder scene remains. The hammer and frame retain 80% vivid original case colors. 40% original age darkened silver plating remains on the trigger guard with the exposed brass having an attractive appearance. The grip is very fine with some minor dings and scratches, high edge wear and most of the original finish remaining. Mechanically excellent. One of the better Colt Model 1860 Army Richards Conversion Revolvers we have catalogued.