Annie Oakley: An Important Marlin .22 Caliber Rifle, Serial #431188, Owned by Annie. ...

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Annie Oakley: An Important Marlin .22 Caliber Rifle, Serial #431188, Owned by Annie. Early lever-action rifles - in fact, most repeaters - were heavy, as much as eleven pounds or more. In 1889 Marlin introduced a lighter lever-action which Annie Oakley soon began to use. Along with a Winchester Model 1894, the 1889 Marlin is featured in the shooting demonstration Annie performed for Thomas Edison's cameras in 1894 in one of the first motion pictures made. The most famous Buffalo Bill's Wild West poster featuring Annie shows her with a Model 1889.

In 1891 Marlin created a lever-action especially designed for .22 caliber ammunition. It suited Annie and her shooting demonstrations so well that in 1893 she allowed the Marlin Company to produce a paid testimonial card (see Lot 44076). This Model 1897 was manufactured in 1907 or 1908, very likely as a gift for her. The dark walnut stock bears similar deluxe checkering (with geometric rather than floral flourishes), fine case-hardened coloring, and once again, customized dimensions. When she began following in her Aunt Ann's footsteps, Billie Butler donned Annie's Stetson and shot targets with this rifle. For sharp-shooting she added a Lyman peep sight to the tang which folded down for use with the original open sights. Like the previous lot, it is in excellent condition. In accordance with our Federal Firearms License, you must complete the necessary requirements to receive this lot. Please see the page on FFL requirements in our Terms and Conditions. This Annie Oakley gun will be accompanied by a letter of authentication from Paul Fees. This lot will be accompanied by a family letter of provenance.

For more information about Annie Oakley and the family provenance of this lot, please click here.

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Fees, Shipping, and Handling Description: FFL Required (view shipping information)

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