Built in 1882 by Atlas Engineering Company, Sydney, it is on static display at the Powerhouse Museum.

During the 1870s, the Government of New South Wales came under pressure to provide work for colonial industry and the manufacture of railway locomotives was investigated.

[2] Locomotive 1243 was completed the following week with the only imported components of the engine being the steel axles and wheels.

In 1955, the locomotive was restored to its original livery for the NSW Railways centenary celebrations at Sydney Central station and for special 'Vintage Train’ excursions run by the New South Wales Government Railways throughout the state in company with 1210.

[6][7] Until 1982, 1243 was an operational exhibit for the New South Wales Rail Transport Museum when it was restored to original condition with short smokebox and low-side tender.