These rifle-muskets were converted by Providence Tool Company in 1869-1870 to the Roberts breech loading system with a tipping block for the Roberts Breechloading Arms Co. of New York City. The design, patent number 65,607 dated June 11th, 1867, was invented by Brigadier General Benjamin S. Roberts. These Roberts conversions were made in a short frame and long frame variant, the short frame being for use with .58 rimfire and long frame for use with .58 centerfire; with this example offered being the rarely encountered short frame variant. Reportedly, 5,000 of the short frame Roberts conversion rifle-muskets were sold to Brazil, 4,000 to Mexico along with some carbines, 875 to Japan, and 790 to France. On page 195 of the "Peabody Firearms" book, author Edward Hull states, "Since almost all Roberts short frame arms went to foreign countries, today the collector will seldom see them in the U.S." 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 very rare and desirable. It has the standard Civil War era rifle-musket sights and furniture, an "1864" dated Springfield lock, and casehardened breech marked "ROBERT'S PAT/JUNE. 11. 1867" on the left. Pulling up on the lever opens the breech and cocking the hammer pulls back on a tab on the lever and closes 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.