Museum Archive: Vintage Herter's Hudson bay spoon, 1/4oz Gold fishing spoon #3493

At a weight of 1/4oz (8g), the classic proportions of this spoon reflect the practical design philosophy that made George Leonard Herter’s catalog a staple for mid-century sportsmen. The gold plating features a rippled, hammered-style texture on the convex side, while the inner surface is polished smooth and carries the distinct stamp of the "HERTER’S HUDSON BAY SPOON." Measuring 1 1/2" (4cm), the lure is finished with a feathered treble hook, combining white and black fibers that extend the profile of the bait. This specific specimen, identified by product code 3493, was manufactured in Japan during an era when Herter’s sourced robust components from overseas to meet the demands of American anglers. The metal shows minor age-related wear, earning it a solid 4/5 condition rating, yet it remains a clean and functional piece of history. Casting this lightweight spoon was a go-to technique for trout and panfish, relying on the flash of the gold finish and the subtle lifelike quality of the dressed hook.