:d/ Glad to hear you love the forum. Great find, absolutely worth the $50 to say the least. 440 Kpsi or so... real nice hand knotted rug.

To me, I think I can say with most certainty this is a Iranian rug. It was probably made sometime in the 1960-70's or so, the colors and design are indicative of this. Objectively speaking, the only thing that's not great about this little piece is the design does not appear to be well suited for the quality being used in certain areas. That is to say, the knot count is way higher than necessary to be to express certain design elements such as the medallion outline.

Nevertheless, this is a rug which would hold it's value, especially given you've purchased it for such a bargain. Depending on the quality of wool, usually a rug like this, if in decent condition, would be in the $200-300 range retail. Very good condition, maybe $325-475. In excellent/mint condition, if the rug had been kept rolled up since new, unused, it could be worth substantially more. Although this rug appears to be in great shape, I'm not sure if I would say it's in mint, although I'd have to see more photographs. If there is a problem with the fringe, this would adversely affect value.

I think this is probably an Isfahan going by both design, quality, weft color (light blue) and look of the fringe. The way in which the fringe has been strung and then woven into a kilim is typical of an Isfahan rug. Very often, rugs have this kilim woven before the fringe, but each area has it's "signature" style of doing so. Isfahan so far as I can see for this little piece...

Enjoy the rug, hang onto it, in another 5-10 years it would be safe to a call semi-antique.

Tell us a little more about how you got it? Did the person have a couple of rugs? Does the fringe feel silky? It appears to be so...

Interesting story. Again, this is a great example of a really good buy.

right, the leathery strips are often applied to add weight to the edges of the rug to keep it flat on the floor, or sometimes are applied to keep the rug from curling (somewhat of a more unusual circumstance.)

The fringe may very well be silk as you say, to counteract the color run which I did not see, I would say the values still hold true for the most part. Obviously if the color run is there, the rug cannot be considered in excellent condition unless all else is perfect.

I cannot understand why your mother would not be fond of these rugs. These are carpets which are often created by entire families, made to be enjoyed by families! Keep up the awesome scouting, this is a really cool deal you've gotten on this rug!