Turning back the clock
I am leaning toward the DC Catalog / Car Craft cover scheme ....I personally like the "California" lettering better than the later 76 version. However, it is not completely my call. I was told by those in the know that when the cover photos were taken there was no motor in the car and the paint had not fully dried.....in other words, it was just out of the paint booth. The photos I have for the article were taken later....after flogging.
I have a great CarCraft proof photo showing where the (2) pins were later installed. They are on the radiator support...about 1-1/2" to 2" inward from the very inside edge of where the inner fender bolts on to the support. It is a factory (non lightened) steel hood with the factory latch and safety catch still intact and functional. A Pro-Stock style snorkle hood scoop is bolted on. I do not see the value of the pins UNLESS NHRA required them for safety. The aluminum Feather Duster outer skins did not show up until 1976...a year later.