what are your top "audio bargins" in your system history?

no one ever gifted me anything nor I inherited a penny. It looks like money goes to money - in hifi as well 

The following bargains were found at thrift stores or garage sales:

Marantz 2235B receiver, $10

Pioneer SA-1000 integrated amplifier, $10

Soundcraftsmen 2640TX speaker, $6

Technics SL-1200M3D turntable, $12

Pioneer HPM-100 speakers (near mint pair), $125

TARA Labs Space and Time speaker cables (two 8-feet pairs), $8

I have other cheap finds,  but these stand out.

The 1986 classic Croft Micro phono preamp for £150. Blew away a stack of Naim gear. Rolled in some Dynaco Telefunken 12AX7s and a Brimar black plate CV5042 and it drove my system for years.

"Marantz 2235B"

what shape was it in?

Schitt Mani. B&W Matrix 804s when they were still made in the UK. Now, I wont buy Chinese made speakers.