If you want M696, that's the one to get. It's the no-dash with the old style frame and forged hammer and trigger. They sell for a little more than the -1 that had the MIM parts and the new frame.
Price and demand may have declined some since the introduction of the M69 a few years ago. Anyone looking for a shooter can opt for the similar 5-shot L-frame M69, which is chambered in the more powerful .44 Mag.
Collectors and aficionado's are still paying top dollar for the M696, though. Looks like they're trading hands on GB in the $900 to $1,500 range.