Museum Archive: Vintage Cotton Cordell Gay Blade, 3/4oz silver fishing #21655

Designed with three distinct tow points on its metal spine, this 3/4 oz (21 g) lure allows for fine-tuning the resistance based on how deep or fast you're working the water. This Cotton Cordell Gay Blade, identified by product code 21655, features a silver honeycomb scale pattern that has stood the test of time, showing a storied history through its honest wear. Measuring 2 1/4" (6 cm), the blade bait construction is accented by a faded red chin and a classic black spot on the flank. The flat plane on the forehead is a technical hallmark of this USA-made cicada-style lure, engineered to displace water effectively during the retrieve. Looking at the hardware, you'll find two original treble hooks that have seen plenty of action, contributing to its 3/5 condition rating. Because of those multiple line-tie holes, shifting the pull point closer to the head allows for a faster retrieve, while moving it back increases resistance for slower, deeper work. The paint on the lead-weighted head shows the typical chipping found on a well-fished specimen, revealing the solid metal foundation beneath the silver finish.