Things have sure changed. Interestingly the lowest end scopes of today are similarly priced to those of yesteryear. They are very similar in quality and build, which isn't that great. The glass can be clearer just. Have too many features on cheap scopes and things start to go wrong whatever the time period.
Invest similar % scope to rifle cost today and scope budget is over £200. Well, £200 just about got a Leupold in the early 80s. Though you do get a better scope in most ways with that kind of budget today.

I've seen some big air rifle collections, and to me far too many have no scopes for examples that really should. I consider many rifles from 1980 onwards undressed without a scope. Having the right mounts without a string of ring marks is quite a challenge let alone a scope that complements the rifle. The Optima Moonlighter look great on many a rifle.

Finding and buying rifles is easy. Finding a scope and mounts to compliment them isn't, especially period examples. Time hasn't been kind to scopes unlike rifles.
I've said for a while now that period scopes in fantastic condition demand a premium that far outweighs their performance. Grab good examples when you can, as there just aren't many in fantastic condition.