Tackdriver,
If it's any help, I sold an all-original but well-used 1954 .257 for $1150 a few years ago, just before the recession.
That was about the going price THEN for pre-'64 .257's with use-wear on the metal and wood. These days prices have dropped somewhat. Collectors still want much better condition, and user-grade rifle like the one I sold are going for somewhat less.
