An addendum to the the discussion-
After posting my pic and comparing to the previous screen caps of the pilot movie FX shots, I am starting to wonder if its possible that the nameplate I took off the big G in 1990 IS the original plate. I always assumed it wasn't, but now comparing the pics I'm starting to reconsider. Perhaps when the nameplate was removed to convert the model to the Pegasus, they modelmakers really did keep it safe, and glue it back on when they were done.
There isn't much to lock onto when comparing the two- all I've got is spacing, and placement of the letters higher or lower relative to each other, etc. Everything I can see matches up. Condidering everything was hand-made, you'd think that there would be SOME differences if it was a different plate.
What would help is if someone could get some screencaps of the nameplate in later BSG or G80 episodes if there were any.
Oh, and yes- upon closer examination, the G nameplate I have does have slightly reddish-brown lettering.
Mark