Museum Archive: Vintage Eppinger Dardevle Cop-E-Cat 7400, 1/2oz Copper / Nickel fishing spoon #8605

Stamped clearly into the copper-plated face is the "COP-E-CAT 7400 DETROIT U.S.A." branding, a hallmark of Eppinger's manufacturing history in Michigan. This Dardevle Cop-E-Cat 7400, identified by product code 8605, features a classic dual-tone finish with warm, polished copper on the convex front and a bright, reflective nickel on the concave back. Measuring 2 1/2" (6.5cm) in length and weighing 1/2oz (14g), the spoon is a versatile size suited for both casting and trolling techniques. The contrast between the two metals is designed for visibility; the copper side performs well in stained water, while the nickel reverse provides high flash in clearer environments. This specific specimen is in excellent, clean condition, earning a 5/5 rating. It retains its original hardware, including a sturdy split ring and a sharp treble hook. The characteristic oblong shape, a staple of Lou Eppinger's designs since 1906, is created using proprietary dies to ensure the traditional wobbling movement intended for this model.