Franklin Mint Armour 98003 1:48 F-4J Phantom II USMC VMFA-232 Red Devils *ISSUES*

A magnificent, heavyweight 1:48 scale diecast masterpiece honoring the oldest and most decorated fighter squadron in the Marine Corps. This premium model by Franklin Mint under the Armour Collection (98003) replicates the iconic McDonnell Douglas F-4J Phantom II (Serial 155801) as flown by the US Marine Corps' Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 232 (VMFA-232), famously known as the "Red Devils". Based out of MCAS Miramar, California, the highly decorated squadron deployed the versatile F-4 extensively during the Vietnam War, where it served as the principal air superiority fighter for the USAF, USN, and USMC before transitioning heavily into late-war ground-attack and aerial reconnaissance roles. The F-4 Phantom II platform continued to form a core pillar of US military air power throughout the 1970s and 1980s, remaining in service up through the 1991 Gulf War before completely leaving combat service in 1996.

Highly prized by collectors for its impressive physical presence, this large and heavy diecast model weighs approximately 1.2kg, presenting a commanding centerpiece for any advanced military gallery display. The airframe features exceptional structural accuracy, rendering the Phantom's signature swept-wing geometry and robust fuselage detailing in solid metal. Meticulously finished in its authentic US Marines operational grey livery, the model highlights crisp squadron stencils and the definitive "Red Devils" tail art. Complete with detailed engine intakes, under-wing fuel tanks, and an array of combat missile attachments, this museum-grade replica arrives packaged in its original collector box.

Fact Sheet

Model Dimensions

Model Condition - Spares/Repairs (4/10)

• Paint cracking across the white painted areas, especially around the nose.
• Some marks and yellow paint transfer to the top of the model.
• Wear to the topside of the fuselage.
• Inner undercarriage door is missing.
• One side part of a pylon is missing.
• Missing piece on the underside of the nose.
• Missiles are detached with visible residue around the missile/pylon areas.
• The wheels are slightly misaligned.
• Any images showing a red arrow marked “flaw” are highlighting the defects listed above.
  

Box condition - Good (6/10)

• Box is in good condition overall but shows noticeable storage and edge wear.
• Barcode label states model 98001 rather than 98003, so the box/model numbering does not fully correspond.

Photographed under studio lighting to highlight even the smallest imperfections. Buy with confidence, what you see is exactly what you get.

Any imperfections are shown in the images and description. Refer to the grading tab for more details. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to ask.