Just an inexpert observation: Apparently, Yung's Earth models don't typically have the root end, so this would seem to be a bit of a special one for having it. Maybe a custom job beyond the usual?
If you can post pics of the utaguchi (embouchure cut), that would probably be helpful.
A problem with pricing such things lies in the fact that even with beginner instruments one usually takes into account the prestige of the maker, the visual beauty of the finished product, details of its seasoning and construction, and playability, tone, and intonation. In most instances it would appear that pricing is on a case-by-case basis in consultation, and this would explain the lack of up-front pricing by makers of acknowledged repute, which is a ranking Yung should without a doubt be included in. It would be more useful in this case to know what your friend paid for it, or else one could ask Yung himself what it should be worth.
If you are looking for sites devoted to shakuhachi where one might buy or sell, these look promising:
http://www.shakuhachiforum.eu/index.phphttp://www.komuso.com/top/index.pl
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