Museum Archive: Vintage Eppinger Dardevle Cop-E-Cat 7300, 1/3oz Nickel / Green fishing spoon #0653

Stamped with 'COP-E-CAT 7300 DETROIT U.S.A.' on its concave interior, this Eppinger Dardevle specimen highlights the craftsmanship of its Michigan-based origins. The spoon measures 2 1/4" (5.5 cm) and weighs 1/3 oz (10 g), offering a balanced profile for casting or trolling. Its visual identity is defined by a Nickel / Green finish, where a vibrant green glitter inlay is framed by a polished nickel border. Identified by product code 0653, this lure retains its original USA-made character, including a sturdy split ring and a silver-tone treble hook. The Detroit stamping indicates a production date prior to the company’s 1959 relocation to Dearborn, making it a significant find for Eppinger enthusiasts. The specimen is in 5/5 condition, characterized by a clean reflective surface and intact glitter application. Its construction relies on proprietary dies that create a specific oblong shape and concave surface intended to respond to water resistance during retrieval.