The older ones are probably better, but the model# is probably more important. If an older one that has been sharpened many many times, I would probably pass on it. You can usually tell when it has. The better models can be expensive. I was lucky when I was looking. I found a D-15 Victory saw locally for $40 when I needed a x-cut saw. My rip is a newer D-12, that one set me back $90. Both are good saws, and 26″ long. I think the collectors go after the D-7, which drives up the price. I think this winter I’m going to look for a couple shorter ones, that fit inside my tool chest.
A good reference.
Disstonian Institute.