FWIW, You're
SUPPOSED to start this thread with: "Look what I got at the gunshow"

Yep, you shoulda bought it - they're worth around $350-$400+, these days, in decent condition.
I've owned just one, with a tang peep sight that was VERY accurate, and three of the Savage M29's brother, the Stevens Model 75.
If they're in good condition, maintained and not abused like many were, they would easily last two lifetimes.
.