I think the pre-War trucks are in a different category than the AD and later trucks (The '41-'47 1st trucks seem to be in their own category, too).
Original/unmolested pre-War trucks of any size seem to be getting rarer all the time. And practically non-existant here on the Atlantic seaboard. So IF you happen across one for sale, it's best not to hesitate as the next guy will grab it.
Prices DO vary by region, with the most expensive trucks being in my area (which just figures ...) and the lowest price ones being in the plains states & provinces.
With that being said, my personal opinion is that if I found a '35 Big Bolt (assuming I was allowed to look for one
) that ran and was presentable enough for parades for $3 grand, the next sound you'd hear was my arm breaking the sound barrier to reach for my pen and check book. You can find headlights -- in fact, not too long ago, I saw a set of NOS lights for a '35 in an attic in VA (a little pricey, but just shows they do exist).
Buy it, don't look back. Like everyone says, you won't feel bad. I, too, bought a truck and paid more than it was actually worth, but it's a fabulous truck with a good history and we enjoy the heck out of it.
Good luck,
John
