On ebay recently a set of Python grips sold for $205. A set of S&W N frame target grips from the pre-1966 period brought $230. Just the grips, mind you. It's all supply and demand. Prices are high because people will pay them.
Two years ago I bought a pair of Colt Diamondbacks. A 4" .22 in 98% for $325. I thought that was too much but I wanted it. A 4" .38 in about 90% for $180. Must have thought that was a fair deal because that's what I offered the FFL dealer at the show and he took it. Then I see these at auction going for $500-$800 and I am shocked.
Recently bought a M27-2 with 8 & 3/8 barrel in the presentation case. Gun is about 99% and I paid $315. Other recent purchases include a S&W victory model (reblued) for $60, a Colt Police Positive Special (4" nickel) for $85, a S&W M10 with 2" barrel for $150, a M13 (4" nickel) for $190, a M15 (4" nickel, you get the feeling I like the shiny guns?) for $185, and an 8 & 3/8 M29-2 (nicely reblued) for $275. All of these were from FFL dealers so it's not like I was dealing with people who didn't know guns.
Last one is Colt Python in nickel with 4" barrel NIB condition. Paid $500 after some haggling.
Good deals can be had, but you have to look, and you have to have money in hand to buy on the spot because the deals are frequently a "right now, take it or leave it" situation.