I was fortunate enough to get mine for $40 from a friend I had keeping an eye out for one. He actually wanted less, but I was so grateful that it wasn't the outrageous prices I had seen online, I was happy to give him a couple of extra bucks. I like being able to take it to classes easily. I think it sews beautifully. I also have a 66 redeye (that still needs to be rehabbed) and a 99 in a cabinet. Did not pay over $50 for either. Don't know why the older machines go for so much $$. Would love to find a 301 but not willing to go over my $50 limit so I guess that's not going to happen for a long time unless I find one that someone hasn't figured out they can get more for.