This is a model of unknown scale of the Sparrow III, a medium-range air-to-air missile which also was designated Air Intercept Missile 7C (AIM-7C). It had a conventional warhead, a solid-fuel motor, a range of 25 miles, and semi-active radar homing for guidance. The missile was deployed on various U.S. Navy aircraft from 1958 into the late 1960s.
The model's manufacturer is unknown. John and Cynthia Heyde donated it to the museum.
This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.