Museum Archive: Eppinger ​Dardevle Devle-Dog 5300, 1/3oz Frog/Nickel fishing spoon #16497

Stamped clearly into the silver-toned reverse side are the words "DEVLE-DOG 5300" and "DETROIT U.S.A.", rooting this specimen in the mid-century manufacturing legacy of Michigan. This particular spoon, cataloged under product code 16497, weighs 1/3 oz (10 g) and measures 2" (5 cm) in length, making it a versatile choice for casting toward target structure. The front-facing paint job features a classic "Frog/Nickel" pattern, consisting of a deep forest green base accented by yellow crackle textures and four distinct yellow-and-black target eyes. At the center of the blade, the iconic Eppinger devil head logo is centered within a yellow oval, a hallmark of the brand since Lou Eppinger began designing lures in his Detroit basement. As an unused item with a condition rating of 6, the finish remains remarkably crisp, from the vibrant pigment of the frog pattern to the polished nickel back. The hardware is equally well-preserved, featuring a clean treble hook secured by a split ring. This Devle-Dog model utilizes the proprietary dies Eppinger developed to ensure a specific concave profile, a technical detail that has defined these American-made spoons for generations. The high-contrast color scheme provides significant visibility during a steady retrieve through various water clarities.