There's some great stories relating to early finds, & prices too, so thanks for taking the time to post them. I remember missing out on a Merlin some years ago, it was in an antique shop we popped into when on holiday near Bournmouth. It was in an umbrella stand with a few walking sticks & almost hidden from casual view. I had a look at it & thought it was worth the asking price. £10 for a Merlin in good nick, grizzle grizzle, but this was in the early 90's I think so a bit out of the time frame I was asking about. Maybe not a great loss after all.