I use a "tuned up Stanley 60 1/2 that I purchased from Cheseapeake Light Craft most of the time. Sometimes you can find one used for less $ than a new one.

Be careful if you are looking at used 60 1/2 planes online - they often have cracks around the mouth...made even more likely by 'enthusiasts' 'truing' and 'cleaning up' the sole on sandpaper. I have a couple of 60 1/2 planes.
My experience is limited, but it's probably as cheap to buy a 'user' plane from a dealer (like Patrick at supertool.com ??) than fighting it out at an online auction. I think the online world has just about destroyed the bargains at yard sales and flea markets, but that may be a local thing here.