Vintage Cars: 1951 Ford Convertible, ford coupes, value of a car

Question
I do tag and estate sales.  We have a 1951 Ford Convertible in "major project" condition at best.  The estate wants us to ask $5500 for the car.  I think that is way out of the ballpark.  Do you know a value of a car in good running order?  How much for one in pieces?  Just a rough idea.  I think these people are crazy.

Answer
It's always impossible for me to accurately appraise a car I can't see, BUT- a quick search on eBay shows "restorable" 1949-1952 Ford coupes and sedans currently bid at $800-$2500 (I couldn't find a "major project" convertible listed).  A convertible is worth at least twice that of a sedan, so they may not be that crazy.  If I were you, I'd auction the car with what you feel is a reasonable reserve ($800? $1200?), and see what happens.  If the objective is to get rid of the car, this will do it.  And if the bidding goes to $6000 or $7000, then I'm sure you'd be MORE than happy to admit to the estate just how wrong you were!