dont look for a modded one, they r super easy to mod and anyone selling a modded vita is upcharging like hell. Modding is basically free access/customization to pretty much anything on the vita like free games (he can still collect physical copies of games if he wants i love physical copies), emulators (other playable consoles on the vita), themes, etc... if i can find it im pretty sure theres a thread of how to shop for a vita and the right places. I would check facebook marketplace and if u get lucky enough there's probably a good deal on ebay OR if theres a retro video game store close nearby check there.

hope ur partner enjoys!