I think that you may be confusing the 85/1.9 with the late-model 85/1.8. IN my experience, the 85/1.8 (black barrel) usually goes for about $700 or so. I would love to have one, but always hestitate once it exceeds $600. The only lens I own that cost more than that is a 21/4.5 for Contax RF. I am thinking about having a run at a Canon 25mm with finder and caps, though.