These rifle-muskets were converted by Providence Tool Company in 1869-1870 to the Roberts breech loading system for the Roberts Breechloading Arms Co. of New York City. The design with a tipping block was invented by Brigadier General Benjamin S. Roberts. Reference U.S. patent number 52,887 dated February 27th, 1866 and patent number 65,607 dated June 11th, 1867. 5,000 of these were originally intended for the New York National Guard but were ultimately sold to the State of South Carolina after the legislature in New York failed to appropriate the necessary funds, with quantities sold to and used heavily by France and Mexico. After a long service life, many of these rifles reportedly suffered a high loss rate due to breaking parts, and thus surviving examples, especially those in high condition like this one, are considered scarce and desirable. It has the standard Civil War era rifle-musket sights and furniture, an "1864" dated E. Robinson New York marked lock, and casehardened breech marked "ROBERT'S PAT/JUNE. 11. 1867" on the left. Pulling up on the lever opens the breech, and when cocking the hammer it pushes down on a tab to close the breech. Reference the book "Roberts Breechloading Firearms," and pages 194-195 of "Peabody Firearms," both by Edward Hull, for information on these Roberts conversions.

Fine, with some areas of light pin-prick pitting, muted patterns of original case colors visible on the breech block, with sharp markings. The refinished stock is very good with some light handling marks and a crack on the left flat running though the rear lock screw. Mechanically excellent. This scarce Roberts conversion rifle-musket would make a fine addition to any advanced U.S. military arms collection!