Besides the villagers of Shirdi, did any other spiritual figures recognize Maharaj's true value in his early days?

Yes, even when the local villagers saw Maharaj as a mad Fakir, other enlightened individuals recognized his greatness. Chapter 0 recounts that Anandnath Maharaj of Akkalkot, a disciple of a famous Swami, came to Shirdi and made profound remarks. Upon seeing Maharaj, he declared, "This is a diamond. You don't know its true value. Even if he is on a dunghill, he is a direct diamond; keep this in mind." Another figure, Gangagir Baba, also recognized Maharaj's immense worth, referring to him as a "gem" that the village was lucky to have.