Museum Archive: Vintage Al's gold fish, 3/16oz Nickel fishing spoon #2145

Weighing in at 3/16 oz (4.5 g), this compact metal spoon features a stamped scale pattern on its convex side to mimic the texture of a small baitfish. The concave backside clearly displays the "AL'S GOLDFISH PAT. 2,612,603" hallmark, identifying it as a piece of American fishing history from the mid-20th century. Measuring exactly 1 1/2" (4 cm), this Al's gold fish model 2145 is a testament to a design so effective that Field and Stream magazine named it one of the 50 greatest lures of all time in 2006. The nickel color remains brilliant across the entire body, and the original treble hook is securely attached via a sturdy split ring at the tail. The specimen is in 5/5 condition, showing a remarkably clean surface that retains its original luster. Originally manufactured in the USA, the lure's head is detailed with a simple eye and gill plate, while the tapered body mimics a classic minnow profile by widening toward the tail.