Museum Archive: Vintage Anniversary Weedless Johnson Silver Minnow , 3/4oz Silver fishing spoon #0489

Measuring 2 3/4" (7 cm) in length, the profile of this classic spoon reflects a century of fishing heritage. This specific Anniversary Weedless Johnson Silver Minnow, identified by product code 0489, commemorates 80 years of production with a distinct stamp spanning 1920 to 2000. Weighing 3/4 oz (21 g), the heavy-gauge metal body is balanced to sit correctly in the water, a design element originally perfected by Louis Johnson in the early 20th century to keep the hook upright. The silver-plated finish on this USA-made specimen is complemented by a holographic scale-patterned inlay, which adds a layered visual texture designed to catch light from multiple angles. As a weedless spoon, it features the signature integrated wire guard, allowing it to be cast into heavy cover where predatory fish often hide. While the condition is a solid 4/5, showing light evidence of time spent in a tackle box, the silver plating remains vibrant. The spoon's thicker center construction allows it to navigate through vegetation without the line twist issues often found in lighter, thinner lures.