From the prices I've seen, $350 would have been a great deal, around $500 for a mountie in excellent condition would be about average. If it is in excellent condition and you got it for less than $500, you got a deal. I have seen that collectors (or just average users?) are driving the prices up on the pre-cross bolt safety guns.
Nice gun, probably my all-time favorite rifle (I have two).
I would second the recommendation for the Ruger Single Six. Very well made and accurate. Exchangeable cylinder also gives you some flexibility to boot. (.22mag delivers similar ft/lbs energy to a .38 Special)
Probably my favorite handgun also.