Can someone explain why deactivated firearms cost SO much?

[u/One-Coffee-2621]

Don't get me wrong, I'm all for the historicity of particular items. I even paid a pretty penny for antiques and a Mosin-Nagant cause of its country of manufacture & individual history. However, I would think that would only go SO far for what's essentially a paper weight. I know personally I'd never bid on auction or buy from a site something I'd have to "pay for the privilege" of deactivation. I'd rather something remain in its original form then pay a premium to hold it. Am I wrong in this view? Am I a dirty poor? Both?

[u/Murray3-Dvideos]

Sounds like there is a good amount of work required to deactivate a firearm depending on what Gov agency standards your trying to meet. Lots of welding, possibly milling away things...