Well, it depends on how you look at it…
From a happiness and fulfillment point of view (consider how we as collectors find great joy from our cards), this woman got the deal of a lifetime. The cards cost her $0. And she’ll probably enjoy her car as much (or more than) we love our card(s). With and from it, she can create lasting memories with her Grandkids and friends, and transport herself right back to her youth when maybe she always wanted for a ‘Vette. Sounds familiar to card collectors.
From the car seller’s point of view, ROI and long-term value wise they got an amazing deal. Off MSRP alone, they immediately netted about $18K-$20K. Factor depreciation in the ‘Vette and appreciation in the Mantle, the car seller could be at a $50K profit in less than a few years.
Today the Corvette is worth about $82K (see below), based on building the pictured model via Chevys website:
https://www.chevrolet.com/shopping/c...&zipCode=04011
The 52 Topps Mantle today would fetch about $85K (if is a PSA 3 which it appears to be) with that amazing centering and clarity, based on prior sales of similar looking 3s (example from HA below). The 52 Topps Jackie today would get about $15K (if is a PSA 3.5 which it appears to be, based on prior sales (example below).Total value today for the 2 at Auction is approx $100K.
I think in this case both parties walked away very very happy. I would not have made that deal of the cards for a car, but others would think that decision just as astonishing. Here’s a great clip from a movie to illustrate:
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=BjcNRU...eSBtYW50bGU%3D