Museum Archive: Vintage Fred Arbogast Jitterbug Jointed, 1/3oz fishing lure #21781

Stamped clearly on the wide metal lip is the "Jitterbug" name alongside the Akron, Ohio, manufacturing mark, anchoring this piece in American tackle history. Measuring 2 1/4" (6 cm) and weighing 1/3 oz (10 g), this jointed variant offers a segmented body design that distinguishes it from the standard solid-body models. The Green Frog finish features a soft yellow belly that fades into a vivid green topside, peppered with dark, hand-applied spots. Large yellow eyes with bold black pupils provide a focused visual profile from the surface. Because it is a surface-running lure, it operates at a 0 ft (0 m) depth, relying on the distinctive double-lobed aluminum faceplate to displace water. This specimen, identified by product code 21781, is in 4/5 condition, showing well-preserved paint and original treble hooks. The metal hardware exhibits some age-appropriate character without compromising the lure's structural integrity.