So here's the thing. And somebody can correct me if I'm wrong on this as I have no personal experience with unplayed System 11's, so I don't want to be claiming expertise here...

...but my understanding about NOS/unplayed playfields from that era is that if you just try to play it as-is, the print/clearcoat will take a quality nosedive in a hurry. Something about having dried up or long-term cured without ever having been compacted down by ball movement. I don't remember where I read this, but I'm pretty sure the appropriate way to treat a "brand new" 80s game is to strip it down and do some clearcoating work.

How many plays in the past 12 years?
Because it could be non-zero.

The battery damage won't affect his asking price - after all, board work is a bonding experience, and any doofus can neutralize alkali.

Generally a good value for the game, wouldn't be surprised if he bumps up the price to $32,990.

Game is nice and clean though. No dirt. For a small upcharge he'll sell you some.

(I loved that thread and this is too much fun...)