Museum Archive: Vintage Johnson Silver Minnow, 3/16oz silver fishing spoon #18761

Genuine silver plating gives this 1 3/4" (4.5cm) spoon a distinctively bright flash that sets it apart from common chrome or polished steel finishes. Weighing 3/16oz (5g), this specific specimen features the classic thick-centered copper/zinc alloy body designed by Louis Johnson. The back of the spoon clearly displays the stamped manufacturer marks and patent information, identifying it as a vintage American-made piece from the original production lines before manufacturing moved overseas. This lure, cataloged under product code 18761, includes the signature integrated wire guard protecting the hook, a feature designed to navigate heavy vegetation. The physical build is engineered to create a rocking motion through a 270-degree angle while maintaining a hook-up orientation to minimize snags. In a condition rated 5/5, the silver finish remains clean and highly reflective. Anglers often pair this size with a small trailer to mimic the appearance of a wounded baitfish, though the spoon is balanced to function without one. The stamped details on the underside remain sharp, testifying to its quality USA-based construction.