Used Model 63's are a bit pricey in my neck of the world as well. I have not figured out why as they seem to be in good supply.
The one I picked up was the first Ive seen around here. Even the 317's dont seem to be very common, as Ive only seen one other around here in any of the shops. They arent cheap either.
I like S&W snubbies and the 2" barrel caught my eye when I saw it. I didnt even know what it was or that it was a 22 the way it sat in the counter. He handed it to me, and I asked how much, and I then handed it right back. Too late though, the hook was set. Just a matter of time getting it reeled in.
From what Ive been seeing around here the past half dozen years or so, the older Smiths are pretty quickly rising in price, even the often well finish worn police trade in guns. Lots of 38's and 357's, not many 22's. I really havent looked, but are the newer 63's bringing as much as the older guns?
The boy I got the 63 off of, has had a 6" K22 Masterpiece for around $800. Its been there a while as well. The only saving grace for me there is, it has the 6" barrel.
He also has a newer 48 in 22 mag, thats a 4" and he wants $725 for that. Not really into 22mags.
The Smith 22 autos dont seem to bring the same premium, as I picked a nice 422 up off him a little over a year ago, for cheap. A couple of hundred bucks. Its been a good shooter and fun little gun, but its ugly as sin. Hes currently got a 2206 with a longer barrel on it there for $400. Its uglier yet.