I have to wonder if all the cars supposidly selling for the high numbers actually are. Stories like yours seem to be common.
You said a mouthful. Lots of smoke and mirrors. Then someone who thinks the illusion is real pops up and pays the money..... I think we are at a time again when you buy a classic car and you spend money on it that you will never see. Better be in it for the fun of it because you can't eat a car!