Museum Archive: Vintage Herter's Viking Spoon​ (Japan), 3/16oz Silver fishing spoon #16631

Stamped clearly into the smooth reverse side of the metal is the mark "HERTER'S VIKING SPOON JAPAN," a testament to the era when the famous mail-order giant sourced specialized tackle from Japanese workshops. Measuring 1 1/2" (4 cm) and weighing 3/16 oz (5 g), the silver body features a deeply embossed diamond scale pattern on its convex side to catch light during a steady retrieve. This specimen, identified by product code 16631, is in 5/5 condition, showing a bright finish on both the textured face and the polished back. The hardware is comprised of sturdy split rings and a classic treble hook, maintaining the original configuration intended for casting in light-tackle scenarios. Herter's designs from this period are known for their functional simplicity and effective use of textured surfaces.