Not looking to argue on this end either and you make some good points re the influence of Hollywood. However, since we are posting about the value of firearms and the market for them, you can never discount historical significance when it comes value.
A couple most recent
https://bearingarms.com/jenn-j/2016/05/10/expensive-gun-sold-auction-1-26-million/http://www.missoulacurrent.com/general/2017/04/montana-little-bighorn-rifle-native-americans/I would guess there are others that traded hands privately that exceeds these.
http://www.gunzmart.com/blog/5-expensive-firearms-ever-sold-auction/You could have Rule's most favorite and used Model 70 and it would be out of its league. The Model 70 is a great rifle, but its' significance value falls short when you factor in history. I'll take Earp's Peacemaker over Ruie's 70.
http://www.therichest.com/luxury/most-expensive/the-7-most-expensive-guns-ever-sold/
