Smith prices aren’t accelerating the way there were about 5 years back. I picked up a 19-4 2 1/2 of early 80’s vintage (still P&R)for $350 about 97% a couple months ago.
Sometimes though, the best deal is just being able to get what you want.
This one was a 19-4 probably from around the same period. Like I said this was an Illinois State Police model with a combat hammer, adjustable sights, and a target trigger. It'd had an action job and the DA pull was about 6 pounds or so and smooth as a baby's butt.
The only finish issues were a bit of honest holster wear. When the ISP went to those 39's the entire lot of them found their way onto the surplus market. They were a damn bargain at 2 bills a piece.
I think I'll give my friend a call and feel him out on the subject.