that my friend is a paint crack.....you can sugar coat it and call it a "split" all you want, but its the same paint crack all other J3A's get.
I had a J3A that got one in about 100 swings, and has lasted me 500 more, even in temps in the 40's. Put some tape over that bad boy, get it dirty so its less obvious (and an umpire doesnt toss it) and you're good to go.
As for a value? I'd say $180 if you have a valid receipt thats good for a bit