As always it depends...
I can think of one example where an older gun in original condition would be worth far more then a newer gun in similar condition.
An early CH with original Bernard barrels would go for much more on this forum at least then a similar 20s or 30s era CH or CHE that might have arguably better or should we say more appealing engraving?
Likewise I would rather own a DH from about 1919 or whenever prior for the same reasons as Dean. Plus, I am always a sucker for a nice damascus DH or CH with a dog on the floor.
I think on the open market you see the appearance of higher prices for newer guns for 2 reasons. Guns from the 20s on tend to be in better condition and for the shooting public at least, there is still a premium/discount going on in relation to fluid steel vs. Damascus barrels. Not nearly as muchas there once was, but it is still present.
Heck I even talked to one of the guys at Puglisis a bit back about a Damascus gun and he lamented it not having fluid steel barrels as they would probably be asking a grand more for it.
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"The Parker gun was the first and the greatest ever." Theophilus Nash Buckingham
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