Good luck with that. There are several 25-35 Winchesters listed on Gunbroker right now to give you some perspective. A brand new, half-octagon for $1,169 hasn't gotten any bids.... In fact, there are almost no bids at all on the 25-35's right now. You should probably make an offer that you expect to be rejected and be willing to walk away, letting the seller know that if he doesn't find a buyer that will meet his price, you would be interested at a price you can afford. Be polite, compliment him for a tastefully restored, though not quite original rifle, leave the seller your number with no bridges burned. You will probably get a call back in a week with a counter-offer. Avoid criticising the seller's high price; rather blame your budget so that the seller can respect your position without being offended at your offer.