The deal you got those figs for is insane. I know it's different, but I'd still buy every carded authenticated Blue Stars figure I could for a grand all day long.
No, I'm with you. If I found one at a toy show or store for that, I think I'd have to do it. I'd just have to do a ton of inspection and research to make sure its legit, but I love that figure. Do you have a custom of him? I got one a while back that is still one of my faves.