Museum Archive: Vintage Kmart Kresge #K12 , 1/4oz fishing lure #21404

Adorned with a weathered gold scale finish and a contrasting dark back, this Kmart Kresge #K12 (Product Code: 21404) represents the Japanese-made craftsmanship once common in the iconic retailer's fishing department. Weighing in at 1/4 oz (7g), the compact 2" (5 cm) body is paired with a generous clear diving lip designed to reach depths between 7 ft (2.1 m) and 11.5 ft (3.5 m). The lure features distinct yellow eyes with large black pupils, a hallmark of many Kmart-branded baits from this era. Rated at a condition of 3/5, the specimen shows honest signs of use, including surface scratches and some finish loss on the belly and sides, yet it maintains its structural integrity with original hardware. Whether deployed for casting or trolling, its deep-diving configuration was built for reaching suspended fish along drop-offs. The silver-tone treble hooks show some oxidation consistent with its vintage status, grounded by the metal eyelets securely embedded in the plastic body.