Ultra Rare Topping XF8U-3 Crusader lll Desk Model

Description

Super rare Topping model of the XF8U-3 Super Crusader. Stand is not original but looks great, the metal knights crest is loose and probably from and old car, radio or ?
The model has 4 removable Sidewinder missile mounts on the sides (pins) and 3 Sparrow missiles built into the belly. No broken fins, just a few curled ones on the Sparrows.
Includes news photo of 2 test pilots holding a Super Crusader model. Not much more to say, bigger than an F-8 model. With large vertical ventral fins and a scooped intake it makes a great display. No breaks, repairs or warping.  Measure 14.5" x 9.5" and 9" tall.
Thanks for looking, questions welcome and glad to combine shipping.
A little history on the model.  In early 2003 an ebay seller listed a bunch of US Navy Topping desk model aircraft, over 20, as 'buy it now'.  I lucked out and bought this as well as an A-4 Skyhawk and a AD2 Skyshark.  They ended up being from the estate of Wiley B. Howell who was the Captain of the USS Bennington from 1965-66, an Essex class carrier with a history of its own.  Captain Howell had enlisted with the UK Coastal Defense Force early in the war and was the pilot of a Wellington that sank the U-502 on July 6, 1942.
He was the first US soldier/citizen to be awarded the UK  Distinguished Service Cross, EVER.