The only early MDL 18's I've seen were online. Gun probers have a few listed, I was concerned about the return policy of some of the sellers and the fact that I really like to have my hot little hands on something before I lay out that kinda money.
I believe that for me, and it was in THAT condition, I'd have tried to get it for less but would have paid that to get it.
If I see one locally I'll take a look even though I'm not in the market for another .22 LR revolver at the moment.
Good luck w/ your decision and have fun.
May I ask, what barrel length?