I would go with the first option (not least since Tukufu has bought a brace of fine pistols under the assumption that the first option is correct...
)
My take has always been that there is a controlled/finite supply that goes out for sale on the general market so the prices are inflated to sky high levels even if you can bear one legally. The Altherian flintlock basically passes for the Herme Handbag or fine Rollex watch in and among the rich and val-ish. And they think the prices are fine, because as a status symbol thing they don't want just any nob to be able to afford one.
But I think its understood culturally that the Second Gift belongs to the chosen people of Altheris. So Altherian gunsmiths take care of Altherians citizens. So Altherians instead get to order flintlocks at (essentially) the price it costs to make them.
Just my 2 cents