I don't know how you can say an elk tag is 3 times the value of whitetail! I'm from Texas, and if you want to go hunt trophy bucks (160" or better); you're starting at $5,000 base going up to $12,000. At least on the known South Texas ranches. The upper end ($12,000) would definitely get you an opportunity at a 180" plus.
I've come across the same type situation; trying to compare elk or mule deer with whitetail. Here is the reason why. I hunt on a lease with some hunters that have zero knowledge of elk or mule deer. Let's say for example I tell them I shot a 300" bull. That means nothing to them. All they know is that when they watch Mossback or some other shows, a 300" isn't too big compared to the upper 300" and 400" killed on some shows. So to give them perspective, I would tell them killing a 300" bull would be like shooting a 150" deer. It happens, and happens often, but that is a quality set of horns.
Real example: a friend of mine shot a heavy horned 180" mule deer; and my uncle started degrading it saying that it was small for a mule deer. He has no idea...........