Museum Archive: Vintage Eppinger Dardevle Midget, 3/16oz Red White Chunk fishing spoon #19337

Stamped clearly on the concave side with the 'DARDEVLE MIDGET U.S.A.' mark, this specimen is a testament to the manufacturing legacy of Eppinger. Measuring 1 1/2" (3.5 cm) and weighing 3/16 oz (6 g), it remains a staple for light-tackle anglers targeting trout or panfish. The Red White Chunk color scheme presents a bold contrast, featuring the signature devil head logo printed cleanly over the white chevron. This specific color combination, paired with the nickel-finished back, is highly effective in clearer water conditions where flash and visibility are critical. These lures were manufactured using proprietary dies to maintain the specific oblong geometry established by Lou Eppinger in Detroit. Historically, the government recognized the effectiveness of these spoons by including them in aviation survival kits during wartime. Regarding its physical state, the paint on the convex side and the nickel plating on the concave side are well-preserved, accompanied by original hardware including the split ring and treble hook. The lure maintains an excellent standard and is assigned a 5/5 condition rating.