Museum Archive: Vintage Eppinger Dardevle Imp, 2/5oz Red Devle fishing spoon #21718

Stamped clearly on the back with the 'DARDEVLE IMP DEARBORN MI' mark, this specimen highlights the legacy of Lou Eppinger’s shift to Dearborn in 1959. Measuring exactly 2 1/4" (5.5cm) and weighing 2/5oz (11g), it carries the iconic Red Devle finish—those classic red and white stripes that have defined tackle boxes for over a century. The front face features the famous devil head logo, neatly centered on the white stripe, while the high-quality nickel finish on the reverse remains bright. This specific lure, identified by product code 21718, is in excellent 5/5 condition, showing well-preserved paint and a robust treble hook. These spoons were famously included in US military aviation survival kits during wartime due to their sheer reliability. For clear water conditions, the nickel-colored back provides a subtle flash that complements the bold top-side colors during casting or trolling. The oblong, concave body is constructed using Eppinger’s proprietary American dies, ensuring the exact metal thickness required for its intended depth.