I've spent a lot of time going through FS ads on different sites, and I don't think you'd find a better deal on used bookshelfs than this pair of Reference 3A Dulcet speakers in very good condition in an attractive maple finish, asking $695 - https://www.usaudiomart.com/details/649447575-reference-3a-dulcet-in-rare-natural-maple/

Also, a Dealer is selling a pair of matching Reference 3a stands asking $270 in mint cond - https://www.usaudiomart.com/details/649458228-refrence-3a-speaker-stands/

Both the above sellers have 100% positive f'back on Audiomart which is important. The two would be around $1k, so a bit over your budget, but a steal in terms of price/performance. Check out the PF review from the same period - https://positive-feedback.com/Issue45/dulcet_reference3a.htm

Hope that helps!