Wild West Show star Annie Oakley’s rifle up for auction in Battle

A rifle which belonged to the 19th Century American sharpshooter who inspired the musical Annie Get Your Gun is going up for auction in East Sussex.

Annie Oakley was a headline attraction in Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show in the 1880s and was famous for her rifle skills.

Born Phoebe Ann Mosey in the midwestern state of Ohio in 1860, she earned the stage name Rifle Queen for feats such as target shooting from the back of a galloping horse.

Her George Henry Daw 408 pin-fire smooth bore target gun is up for auction in Battle later, with an estimated sale price of up to £50,000.

Will Ellin, of Burstow and Hewett Auctioneers, told BBC Radio Sussex the rifle had a “remarkable” history.

“It came to us from a private collector and is extremely well-decorated all over. It is in incredibly good condition for its age,” he said.

The late 19th Century rifle, with original factory engraving and cartridge ejection mechanism, was made especially for the legendary female target sharpshooter.

It was constructed “to suit a smaller stature” and “profusely engraved with references to Oakley”, according to the auction house.

Oakley was given the nickname “Watanya Cicilla” by her Native American counterpart Sitting Bull, which translates to “Little Sure Shot”.

Both names are engraved on either side of the target gun chamber, along with her stage name “Rifle Queen” on the butt plate.

One of the most minute details can be seen when holding the gun and viewing down the sight, on which can be seen the words “Never Miss.”

The gun is accompanied by its original mahogany carrying case, which bears a brass plaque on the cover, inscribed “Rifle Queen” centred with the initials “A.O.”.

George H Daw supplied shotguns and rifles to many important figures, such as Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, according to the auction house.

A spokesperson said: “This is an extremely rare opportunity to own a remarkable piece of American history, made for one of the most famous early American female cultural icons.”

The auction is taking place on the 99th anniversary of Oakley’s death.