580. ANNIE OAKLEY (1860-1926) American trick shot specialist able to outshoot any rival, she toured with Buffalo Bill's Wild West Show from 1885 to 1902 and was one of Cody's prime attractions. Brief, very rare and fine content A.L.S. "Annie Oakley Butler", 1p. 8vo., [n.p., n.d., but almost certainly from her home in late 1901]. The trick-shot artist writes in a shaky hand: "Still in bed 9th week. Thanks for your sweet letter. Mr. B[utler]. Will arrive from Pinehurst N.C. on Friday the 26th. God bless you. Lovingly, Annie Oakley Butler PS Dr. forbids me to write". A few light spots in text, one horizontal fold, possibly trimmed, else very good. This letter was almost certainly written during her convalescence following the wreck of the Wild West Show's train in October, 1901. Although there were no fatalities, several members of the show were severally injured, with Annie among the worst. After nearly four months in bed, she did recover but remained partially paralyzed. However, she did return to the show, shooting only on a limited basis. Certified as fully authentic by noted authenticators PASS-CO, with their Certified Silver Professional Authentication Service Summary certificate no. GD27576. $5,000-6,000