Posts: 48 From: Santa Monica, CA Registered: Sep 2017
posted 01-29-2018 02:25 PM
Alas the escape tower is missing from this Mercury capsule model by Topping. I would still imagine this to be a somewhat desirable item. Any advice would be welcome.
stsmithva Member
Posts: 1933 From: Fairfax, VA, USA Registered: Feb 2007
posted 01-29-2018 05:21 PM
The metal rod has also been knocked up into the back of the spacecraft. With those two condition issues, I'd say $200-250.
Skythings Member
Posts: 243 From: Registered: Jun 2014
posted 01-29-2018 07:15 PM
I had the exact model in 2014 in almost identical condition. The tower was missing and the hole where the metal post entered into the model was cracked and slightly oversized. The original grey felt was still on the underside of the globe base. The original gold foil Topping sticker was still intact and in excellent condition.
In 2015 I listed it on eBay an it sold for $260 USD on after an opening bid amount of $1 (which is the way I run any auctions on eBay).
I have seen folks offering replacement towers for them. With the tower I have seen them sell for up to $500 USD on the high side.
Something to note is the lower red ring around the nose is inset into the capsule and this is where the original tower ring will snuggly fit onto the top of the model.
Lagazza Member
Posts: 48 From: Santa Monica, CA Registered: Sep 2017
posted 01-29-2018 07:32 PM
Thanks for the input. collectSPACE at its best.
GACspaceguy Member
Posts: 2475 From: Guyton, GA Registered: Jan 2006
posted 01-30-2018 04:39 AM
I agree with the value as stated in the above posts.
I had one of the Mercury spacecraft in a group of model parts I bought on eBay. I made a base and had Michael Key make a tower for it. There are photos here.