1959 Galaxie 4 door barn find value?

[RabbitHoleSS]

I was doing some work for my cousin on a new rental property hr bought this weekend when he asked if I could break into his garage.
Upon entering, this is what we found
I couldn't believe what I was looking at, I've never seen a true survivor from this Era. There's no rust on it. Except slight pitting on some trim pcs. Plate on it is from 1972, 35k on the odometer. Interior is 9/10. No cracks, headliners up and the pedals don't show any signs of wear, it seems to be 100% complete. This thing is beautiful. I'm not a ford guy but I wanted it as soon as I seen it.
I'm a terrible picture taker,plus I was super excited so I didn't even pull my phone out til the end when my boy said "Dad take some pictures ".

So here's my question, the car has no title, but it's not stolen. The woman he bought the house from was married to the owner(he's deceased) she doesn't want to mess with getting a title, (she left the car behind).
So knowing that I offered my cousin(not a car guy at all) 5k, did I lowball him? Or Did I offer too much in my excitement?
Any opinions and advice is appreciated.

 

[DRIVEN]

Every state is different, so processes vary. Old guys die every day and leave cars behind so I would think there's a way to get a title. You might be able to go the lein route too.

As for the car, it's cool because it is what it is. But just being old and not having many miles doesn't necessarily make it valuable. The market sets the value. If you plan to keep it and feel good about the $5k price, don't worry about it. If you plan to flip it, it's just a matter of math.

You've still got a lot of work ahead of you. Expect to replace everything that brake fluid has touched. The fuel system will need plenty of attention, as will the cooling system. I assume it's an automatic, hopefully there's no heartbreak hiding there. Then a set of tires. Then there's the cleanup and detailing. I'm not saying anything you don't already know.

But man, look at all that shiny trim!!!

 

[SoFloG]

A title should be available under the circustances bit definitely different in ever state. Contact your local dmv or title issuing agency. As far as $5k to your cousin that's relative, but the car certainly looks worth it.

 

[Sweet_Johnny]

That's just incredible, I'm in awe just imagining being there.

 

[86LK]

5k is reasonable. unknown issues, off the cuff offer, if he accepts with no negotiating, then what's the ruckus?