Museum Archive: Vintage Herter's, 1/16oz gold fishing lure #19563

Stamped clearly onto the underside of the metal diving lip is the "JAPAN" origin mark, identifying this piece as a classic import from the golden era of catalog outfitters. Measuring exactly 1 1/2" (3.5cm), the lure features a traditional gold-scaled finish paired with a deep black back and a sharp red gill slash behind the eye. Herter’s, the famous Waseca-based outfitter, distributed these small-profile minnows for anglers targeting panfish or trout with light tackle. This specimen, identified by product code 19563, maintains its integrity with a weight of 1/16oz (2g). The hardware remains remarkably clean, featuring two silver-tone treble hooks and a metal lip secured firmly by two underside screws. In a condition rated 5/5, the paint retains its original luster across the entire body profile.