Prices have been rising steadily on Pythons over a number of years, more than a decade so more than just a few years. Keep in mind always that what someone begins the auction at is different at what it ends at. But Pythons aren't the only handgun.
They are good strong guns. But it isn't the value of the guns as shooters that drives the price.
Have you looked at the prices for S&W Registered Magnum's lately. Here Rock Island Auction had a RM up for bid in maybe 80-90% condition. Used, filed on some with painted on rear sights, some wear, etc.
The original grips were missing and the replacement stocks from some years later. No box or papers.
They estimated it would go for $4,500. to $7,000
Sold for $6325.
https://www.rockislandauction.com/detail/63/3480
Or this one from 2011 owned by Rex Applegate...
http://www.gunauction.com/buy/10501565
You can also look at the prices for Triple Locks in 90% plus condition. The price of GI Garands has also risen.
What drives it are first of all collectors. As the price of everything else has increased so has this. I respect collectors, from them we know a good deal about the history of the guns and guncraft.
Secondly, there is a layer of people who have been making alot of money over the last couple of decades (unlike most of us) tech folks for one. Young, they have disposable incomes that are large and they often lack taste or discretion in what they spend it on--artwork, $1,000 bottles of hooch, shiny fast cars, etc. But it's their money so...
Some of this has also been driving the market for high end 1911s. I wouldn't get a brand new $3,000 1911 or a $5,000 one. I have no need nor desire. But some folks do.
http://cabotgun.com/
That approach flows into the market for vintage Pythons.
Man how much do some folks pay for a jacket Elvis wore? Or a cheeto in the shape of a gorilla?
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/arti...d-100-000.html
So some of it what can you say?
On the other hand I think Colt 38s like the Officers Model and the Police Positive, etc are sleepers.
At some point the price of these guns may decrease some.
tipoc