bullethead
Of the hard cast variety
Because they don't make them anymore. You can't buy a new production JM Marlin. Yes, Ruger is making a fine 336, much better quality than the Remington versions, but the JM stamped Marlins became instant collectors once they stopped making them.Marlin lever actions are probably the most over priced rifles around. They're cool and all but they're still a $500 rifle selling for $1200. Even the post JM Remington ones are ridiculous. I'm not sure why a plain Jane lever action hunting rifle is suddenly made of gold.
That is also why the pre-64 Model 70s don't lose value, and the 760/7600/740/7400 , and older Rem 700s are now climbing in price. The re-started Remington co isn't making them so people cant go get a new one. And just like the Rem-lins(hit or miss quality)and Ruger-lins (expensive) if Remington did remake the pumps and autos they will ask $1400+ for them, so people are now paying $800 for the originals knowing they were quality made.