Originally Posted by
msb0b
Fairly certain Win 2008R2 only came in 64-bit editions.
Another place to look is off-lease servers on dellrefurbished.com . It is run by Dell Financial Services and typically features 2-4 year old equipment. They often have 50% off coupons so keep an eye out for them on deal sites.
You are correct--been so long since I discovered the lack of h/w requirement in the rig for Server 2012...trying to initiate an install again now to get a reminder.