For a rifle that will last generation after generation and not break the bank too bad, there are a few excellent choices.
Marlin model 39, probably one of the best .22 rifles ever made. Has been in continuous production for over a century with only minor changes anda couple of model redesignations.
Browning BL-22, another very high quality .22 levergun
Remington 552 Speedmaster, one of the finest .22 Auto's available, and the only one I'm aware of that can handle shorts, longs and long rifles.
Browning Auto .22, nice, sleek rifle that is reminiscent of the classic Remington model 41/241.
Remington 572 Fieldmaster, a top-tier, pump-action .22 that handles short, long and long rifle.
Remington model 5, Solid Bolt action repeater with classic lines and nice wood, still priced competitively
Ruger 77/22, they're just nice
CZ, giving other bolt action rimfires a serious run for the money
Now, if you want to get fancy, there are the Kimber Super America, the Cooper 57-M and the Remington 547, all of which are well over the 4 figure mark.