GDU,
I am certainly not an expert but my understanding/impression is that the 1900 is a higher quality of what we call "hardware store" guns here. Back in the day most HW stores sold guns for the average Joe who looked at them as hunting tools. I was most impressed with the ruggedness and durability of the Remington guns in Sherman Bell's "Finding Out for Myself" series of articles. Assuming that the barrels are in good shape I would think that low pressure (5,000 psi) loads would be fine. Value - I've seen them run from $USD 300 - 1,000 depending on condition. I'm sure other, more knowledgeable folks will chip in with their insights.
Good luck! Phil