There are definitely some more common G2s that are $5 USD ponies at most...they were sold a lot more globally and the US had the first couple of sets as well as Europe. It means there are a lot more of them around and it may be worth looking at the ones from the first year or 2 if you want the lower priced options
The later ones can be more expensive, but it does depend a lot on which pony TRTL said.
If you didn't do this already, I would maybe look at a site like Lavender Lagoon and pick out the G2s you are really interested in. Then if you ask here with specific names, the G2 experts will be able to give you a good price range to look for for those ponies.
The really high price you mention does seem excessive, and I would definitely avoid that