Museum Archive: Vintage Johnson Silver Minnow Weedless, 1/3oz nickel fishing spoon #23370

Measuring exactly 2" (5cm) in length, this vintage piece of American fishing history showcases the ingenious weedless design that Louis Johnson pioneered back in 1920. Weighing in at 1/3oz (9g), the spoon features a distinctively tapered thickness in the center, a structural choice made to ensure the hook remains upright during a retrieve. This specific specimen, identified by product code 23370, comes in a classic nickel finish that offers a clean, bright flash beneath the surface. Unlike modern iterations now produced overseas, this is an original USA-made model, highly sought after by collectors for its manufacturing quality. The integrated single hook is protected by a sturdy metal weed guard, allowing it to navigate dense vegetation where other lures might snag. The surface is remarkably well-preserved, earning it a 5/5 condition rating. The hardware is secure, and the classic teardrop profile remains as relevant today as it was a century ago for targeting predators in heavy cover. Anglers often pair this with a trailer to mimic the gill movement of wounded baitfish.