Museum Archive: Vintage Rapala Original Floater F5, 3/32oz S (Silver) fishing lure #7493

A balsa wood construction weighing 3/32 oz (2.5 g) forms the core of this Rapala Original Floater F5, a classic minnow-style lure from Finland. Measuring 2" (5 cm), this specimen features the traditional S (Silver) pattern, distinguished by its black back, silver scales, and a signature red throat detail under the clear diving lip. The yellow eyes stand out sharply against the dark upper body. Designed to operate at depths between 2 ft (0.6 m) and 6 ft (1.8 m), it is well-suited for casting or trolling techniques. The hardware remains in excellent shape, showing a 5/5 condition with bright, sharp treble hooks. This particular model, identified by product code 7493, showcases the precise assembly that made Lauri Rapala's design a worldwide standard for balsa lures. The clear lip is stamped with the "Rapala Finland" branding, confirming its heritage.