Taking a Shot at History: Annie Oakley’s Rifle is Set to Fire Up Bids!

Annie Oakley, born Phoebe Ann Mosey in 1860 in Darke County, Ohio, rose from a humble frontier upbringing to become one of the most iconic figures in American entertainment and Wild West folklore. By the time she was a teenager, Oakley was already earning a reputation as a formidable markswoman, using her skills to help support her widowed mother and siblings.

She gained national fame when she joined Buffalo Bill’s Wild West show in 1885, dazzling audiences around the world with feats of sharpshooting that included shooting the ashes off a cigarette held in her husband’s mouth and splitting playing cards edge-on at 90 feet. It was the great Lakota leader Sitting Bull who gave Oakley the nickname “Little Sure Shot,” a title she proudly carried throughout her career.

Her trailblazing career not only broke records but also shattered gender norms of her time, paving the way for women in sports and public life. Oakley remained a vocal advocate for women’s rights, including their right to serve in the military and to bear arms.

The rifle being auctioned this summer is a rare and evocative artifact from Oakley’s extraordinary life. Adorned with the engraved titles “Rifle Queen” and “Little Sure Shot,” the gun stands as a testament to her unmatched skill and enduring legacy. While full details on the make, model, and provenance of the firearm are expected to be released in the coming weeks, its historical significance is already generating buzz in both the antiques and firearms communities.

Mark Ellin, Managing Partner | Auctioneer & Value says  “This is a truly special item, Annie Oakley is a cultural icon, and to handle a weapon she owned—particularly one so personally inscribed is a rare privilege. We expect a great deal of interest when the full catalogue is unveiled.”

More detailed information including the rifle’s condition report, provenance, and estimated value will be shared closer to the sale date. Interested buyers and enthusiasts are encouraged to sign up for updates on the Burstow & Hewett website and follow their social media channels for the latest announcements.

Whether you're a seasoned collector or a history lover, the opportunity to own a piece of Annie Oakley’s legacy is not one to miss. As the story of the “Little Sure Shot” continues to inspire generations, this rifle stands as a powerful symbol of her remarkable life and career.

For more information and upcoming announcements on the auction, visit www.burstowandhewett.co.uk