Actually, there were more 415-CD airframes produced than any other model subsequent to the 415-C; including Forneys, Alons and M10s.
Original production of 369 airframes was supplemented over one hundred more unsold 415-C in dealer inventories factory-converted in the field to identical factory specification (only way to tell is by serial number and conversion plate). These "after the fact" conversions were registered as 415-CD models when sold, which has confused many historians.
With the advent of LSA and pilots desiring to operate with lapsed medicals under associated rules, the controversy as to how many 415-CD were "legally" converted to 415-D models has arisen. That question may not be resolved conclusively within our lifetimes ;<)
I can say, however, that FAA records up until recently showed 118 of the "original production 415-CDs" remain on "active" registry as 415-CD models; plus 36 of the factory conversions. There are 17 more that appear to be post-production owner upgraded 415-Cs.
Maybe slightly less rare than "hen's teeth"? ;<) WRB -- On Sep 11, 2009, at 10:52, Paul M. Anton wrote:
The factory original C/D model planes are as rare as hen's teeth. :-) Cheers: Paul N1431A 2AZ1
