Museum Archive: Vintage Eppinger Dardevle Cop-E-Cat 7300, 1/3oz Fire Tiger / Brass fishing spoon #0415

Weighing 1/3 oz (10 g), this Eppinger creation provides the necessary mass for long casts even against a light breeze. This Dardevle Cop-E-Cat 7300, identified by product code 0415, features a high-visibility Fire Tiger pattern over a solid brass body. Measuring 2 1/4" (5.5 cm), the spoon displays the classic oblong shape that has made Lou Eppinger’s designs a tackle box staple since the early 1900s in Detroit. The finish is in 4/5 condition, showing well-preserved color and distinct black vertical bars that contrast sharply against the orange, yellow, and green gradient. On the lower portion of the convex side, the distinctive brand stamping is visible near the split ring. The hardware includes a sturdy treble hook attached via a robust split ring. Because it is built on a brass base, it offers a different light reflection compared to nickel-backed versions, often preferred in clear water scenarios where a subtle flash is desired. The manufacturing heritage of these lures remains centered in Michigan, continuing the tradition of using proprietary dies to maintain the specific curvature of the metal.