Museum Archive: Vintage Johnson Silver Minnow, 1/2oz fishing spoon #1194

Weighted at exactly 1/2oz (14g), the profile of this weedless spoon showcases the classic thick-centered design that Louis Johnson pioneered in 1920 to maintain a hook-up orientation. This specific specimen, identified by product code 1194, carries a deep, dark finish that provides a different silhouette than the traditional bright silver plating. The concave interior is clearly stamped with "JOHNSON'S SILVER MINNOW," a mark of its origin from the original USA production runs. Equipped with a sturdy single hook and a functional metal weed guard, the lure is built for navigating heavy cover. A notable feature is the attached bead chain trailing behind the main body, which connects to a secondary small silver blade stamped with the brand name. This addition provides extra visual cues while maintaining the lure's path through vegetation. The specimen is in beautiful condition, earning a 5/5 rating for its clean surfaces and intact hardware. A small paper collector's tag marked 1194 remains affixed to the inner spoon, reflecting its history in a curated collection. The technical design allows for a 270-degree rocking movement, creating reflections directed downwards and to the sides where predatory fish typically strike.