DrummerBoy,
Welcome to the fire. In my opinion, it's worth the money to buy the best rifle your wallet can afford. If you can get one that is complete, working and doesn't need any replacement parts, that is best. Parts are expensive and hard to find. I also prefer rifles that don't show any plier or vice marks on the barrel or receiver. That's a sure sign the barrel has been removed.
I also really like special sights and set triggers. The Model 1876 got a set trigger more than any of the other early levers.
Enjoy the hunt! Model 1876 rifles in .40-60 are not common but they are out there. In addition to Merz, Collector's Firearms usually has a few 1876's in stock.
Your mileage may vary.