I paid $500 for my featherweight the Spring of 2005. It had been completely re-conditioned, checked over thoroughly, and gives a perfect stitch. I felt like I was paying "top dollar," but there weren't many selling then. I love it,it gives good service, and I haven't had any major problems with it.
It was made in 1942, and could look up the exact numbers on it.
I would rather pay more and have it in perfect condition than to pay less and have to start having work done on it.
Mariah