HAMMER NAVY REVOLVER, “LT. WM. H. GIBBS, 15TH ILLINOIS. Cal. .36 cal. S# 598. This large frame revolver measuring 14" overall is in standard configuration, 8" octagonal barrel, unique feature of folding trigger guard functions as loading arm, 2-line address & patents on left side of barrel. This was a rather expensive arm in its day and only about 750 were made. Mounted with fine smooth grips and inscribed in script on butt strap: “Lieut. Wm. H. Gibbs”. This is a deluxe revolver with ivory and finely crowned muzzle. William H. Gibbs (1836-1875) was seminary student at Mount Morris college, when war began & entered service at Lincoln’s first call for troops: April 22nd 1861 as 2nd lieut., Co. H, 15th Illinois, he was promoted to captain Feb 15, 1863, before mustering out July 20, 1864 during the heat of the Atlanta campaign. The 15th Illinois was one of the most heavily fought regiment at Shiloh, Corinth, and Vicksburg with numerous casualties. Gibbs moved to Mississippi just after the war, married, started a family, elected to Mississippi State Senate 1878-1870, and then appointed postmaster of Jackson. He was a good moral carpetbagger. After his death, his widow and children stayed in Jackson, and their families are prominent today in Mississippi. UNATTACHED ACCESSORIES: Small file of research. CONDITION: very good overall. appears complete, original & matching S#s including ivory grips. Metal is overall has smooth gray patina. Maker marks & S#s are clear & discernable. The rolled pastoral cylinder scene often worn is very nice & complete on this example. Grips are well fit with a mellow patina. Mechanically fine, well discerned rifled bore. PROVENANCE: Bernie Braverman, 1984; from the Lifelong Collection of Robert "Mike" Bricker.. (01-24954/JS). ANTIQUE. $3,000-4,000.