3.55 489 center WIW question

Just bought a garage lot of left over parts from a guy getting out of the old car hobby. Have not gone through any of the boxes yet but mainly e and body stuff. Did get a nice 489 center with 3.55 but it is an open. Seems most people want a sure grip but $400.00 for a new one does it add any value? And if you sold one how did you ship it? Fair price for an open 3.55 verse one with a new clutch type installed? Thoughts?