If you don't have any strong emotional connection to this particular copy of Merchan of Venus: Sell it as long as it is worth as much as it is, then grab a shiny new copy for much less when the reprint arrives sooner or later
I mentioned the value of the game the night we played, and that my friend could sell it to finance a family vacation but he didn't seem interested in doing so.
I've never played MoV, but the way stargazer talks about it I might have to buy a copy myself when the reprint comes out.
Now I'm nervous that you'll find it overrated.
About putting cards in sleeves, some friends put their Magic: The Gathering cards in them so that they can still play the game but keep the cards in good condition.