Museum Archive: Vintage Eppinger Dardevle Seadevle Imp, 1oz Yellow / Red Five of Diamonds fishing spoon #0273

Adorned with the legendary "Five of Diamonds" pattern in vibrant red over a yellow body, this spoon is a true staple of North American fishing history. This specimen comes from Eppinger, a manufacturer based in Dearborn, Michigan, that has been refining its proprietary dies since Lou Eppinger started hand-making lures in 1906. Measuring 3 1/4" (8 cm) and weighing in at 1oz (28 g), the Dardevle Seadevle Imp (Product Code 0273) features that classic oblong, concave shape designed for a steady retrieval or casting. Looking at the hardware, it's equipped with a sturdy split ring and a strong treble hook. The yellow finish shows some very minor signs of age while remaining vibrant, giving this piece a solid 4/5 condition rating. A stamped logo is visible on the inner concave surface, a hallmark of the American-made quality that famously led the U.S. government to include these spoons in aviation survival kits during wartime. For those fishing in clearer water, the high-contrast yellow provides excellent visibility.