That is only true if the player base UNDERSTANDS the mechanics. Which from this thread they obviously don't. What is the point of changing the mechanics to fix a problem that is observer bias?
Probably because it isn't observer bias.
If a player has never heard of famous historical items, has been told that they are an enormous hassle that require consistent maintenance and will only require more maintenance after an investment, has been told of the length of time and personal involvement necessary for a fairly negligible stat bonus, will he want to invest in one?
I certainly don't, and I don't really see people fighting for uniques for the chance to invest time and cash in them.