Museum Archive: Vintage Rapala Countdown S9, 2/5oz S (Silver) fishing lure #13978

Resting on a clear diving lip stamped with "RAPALA FINLAND," this balsa wood minnow represents the classic craftsmanship of its home country. Measuring 3 1/2" (9 cm) and weighing 2/5 oz (12 g), the Silver (S) pattern features a shimmering foil finish contrasted by a solid black back and bright yellow eyes. Under the hood, this sinking specimen is designed to reach specific depths between 1 ft and 13 ft (0.3 - 3.9 m), making it a versatile choice for both casting and trolling for species like zander, perch, and pike. This particular lure, cataloged under product code 13978, has a seasoned appearance with a 3/5 rating, showing four small tooth punctures that tell the story of previous successful strikes. The throat is accented with a small dash of red paint, a classic visual trigger situated just behind the nose eyelet. It retains its original hardware, including two belly-rigged treble hooks and the characteristic sink rate that the Countdown series is famous for.