New (to me) Yaesu Receiver

When the husband of my best friend found out I'd upgraded my radio license he shipped me his father's Yaesu FRG 7700 receiver, for which I am most humbled and grateful. I still need to figure out whether the speaker-type 16 gauge wire he used as an antenna in his residence at the top of a hill over-looking Seattle will be sufficient here at the low point in my heavily wooded, hilly neighborhood. The receiver was manufactured between 1981 and 1986 but looks to be in excellent condition. Will take it to the Radio Club meeting Friday and get some advice.