1940s dollar hadn’t been inflated away, still “backed” by gold, at least nominally. Based on current gold prices about $40,000. Tough to make comparisons over time - but it’s safe to say $600 was a lot of money back then, for most people.
Gold was fixed at $35/oz at that point.
600/35=17.14 oz.
Current price, $1337. About $23,000.