Cased, British proofed, Richards Conversion of the Colt Model 1860 Army revolver, s/n 198459 manufactured circa 1871-78 in obsolete 44 Colt centre-fire calibre. Six shot rebated cylinder, eight inch round barrel, with ejector rod attached. It is a factory converted example, numbered in the percussion serial range of the Colt 1860 Army.  

This early metallic cartridge revolver, is basically a Colt 1860 Army percussion revolver, with its loading lever removed and the barrel lug plugged. It is fitted with a conversion breech-plate, a firing pin, integral rear sight and a rim which projects slightly over the breech end of the cylinder.

The barrel address reads: -ADDRESS COL SAML COLT NEW-YORK U.S. AMERICA-. It is stamped COLTS/PATENT on the left side of the frame and 44 CAL on the left shoulder of the trigger-guard. The rare Von Oppen signature of the Rampant Colt is stamped on the right shoulder of the trigger-guard. This confirms that this revolver was sold through Colt’s Agency at 14 Pall Mall, London.

It has a blued barrel, cylinder and back-strap, case coloured frame and breech-plate and silver-plated trigger-guard. The revolver is complimented with varnished one-piece walnut grips. The cylinder which depicts the naval engagement scene, bears British proof-marks to each chamber. There are also two British proof-marks stamped on the left side of the barrel, forward of the wedge assembly. Total manufactured about 9,000. 

Cased in its original London made partitioned case, with green baize to base and lid. It retains its rectangular Colt trade label, scalloped at the corners, in the lid. The label reads: Colt’s Patent Fire Arms Manufacturing Co / 14, Pall Mall, S.W. / London. The cartridge board will hold up to sixty cartridges. Accessories include a iron cleaning rod, pewter oil bottle stamped “JAMES DIXON/& SONS/SHEFFIELD” on the base and rare L-shaped tool (similar to a nipple key for percussion revolvers) for removing and cleaning the firing pin.

Overall in fine condition,  with much original finish. It has a good action and is in excellent working order. It was this model that “Won the West” as much as the Colt 1873 single action revolver.