Just found a May 2000 air gunner mag and there's a RWS advert stating "The All New Rapier" So I reckon not many months before this the Rapier came out.
Price wise. Have seen several advertised recently ranging from £300 to £500. Some of these are fac, although I think £500 is a bit steep, unless the rifle is fitted with a good quality scope. Seems like the average price is between £350 to £425.