Funny note:
While I was listed as the high bidder before the sale, I received an ebay derived email message promising me that I could purchase, a unit meeting the exact standards of the one I had the current bid on. (I paraphrase) 'If only I would contact (said seller) off ebay they would be happy to arrange it.' I was confused and amused at the same time. Knowing some of the history of the instrument, and it being nearly one of a kind, took most of the air out of the off ebay sellers argument.
Oh to correct the last post,
As it turns out my other basses are (walnut tops) as well.
Adam