Asking and getting are two different things. Most of the reselling sites I visit mark their items down a certain percentage after a while. They may go through several more markdowns and if still unsold, be relegated to the 'outlet'. The sites may also have a more generous return policy, offer in house financing, etc.
I don't plan on buying new any time soon. I tend to resell my bags and the hit you take with most new bags is substantial. Of course there are exceptions, but most mass produced bags aren't going to recoup your investment. I have picked up several older Speedys, carried them for a few years and resold them for about what I paid for them.
I agree that the older bags are better quality and I also hate the patina process with a passion. I prefer to get mine already tanned.