Museum Archive: Vintage Eppinger Dardevle Midget, 3/16oz Salmon / Nickel fishing spoon #11724

Stamped clearly into the nickel-toned reverse side are the words "DARDEVLE MIDGET U.S.A.," identifying this classic Eppinger spoon. Measuring 1 1/2" (3.5cm), the front of the lure is finished in a warm Salmon paint, featuring the unmistakable black devil head logo centered on the concave body. This 3/16oz (6g) specimen, identified by product code 11724, retains its original hardware, including a strong split ring and a sharp, silver-finished treble hook. The nickel-plated back provides a bright contrast to the colored front, a design choice intended to maximize visibility in various water clarities. Regarding its state, the lure earns a 5/5 rating, showing exceptionally well for a vintage piece with crisp stamping and vibrant paint. These spoons have been produced using proprietary dies since Lou Eppinger founded the company in Detroit back in 1906, eventually moving operations to Dearborn in 1959. Every detail of the construction, from the specific oblong curve to the weight distribution, reflects over a century of American manufacturing specialized for casting and trolling applications.