Museum Archive: Vintage Eppinger Dardevle Skeeter, 1/32oz Frog / Nickel fishing spoon #14742

Stamping on the reverse of this 1" (2.3cm) spoon clearly identifies it as a Dardevle Skeeter, an essential ultra-light model from Eppinger's storied history. Weighing just 1/32oz (1g), this specific specimen, product code 14742, represents the delicate end of the Detroit-born brand’s lineup. The face is finished in a classic Frog pattern, showing a crackled green texture accented by yellow circles with black centers. Flipping the lure over reveals a polished nickel back, which bears the 'DARDEVLE SKEETER U.S.A.' hallmark, signifying its American manufacturing roots in Dearborn, Michigan. The hardware includes a factory-installed split ring and a sharp, dark-finished treble hook. This item is rated at a condition of 5/5, showing remarkably crisp paint and a clean metal surface. Eppinger has utilized proprietary dies for these shapes since Lou Eppinger’s early designs, ensuring the exact proportions needed for light-tackle casting. The small profile is particularly useful for finesse applications in clear water.