Vintage Rapala Original Floater F9 (Finland 1960s), 1/8oz S (Silver) fishing lure #22761

Stamped clearly on the belly, the word "Finland" denotes the heritage of this 1/8 oz (4 g) balsa wood lure. This specific Rapala Original Floater F9, bearing product code 22761, features the classic Silver (S) pattern that has defined the brand's aesthetic for decades. Measuring 3 1/2" (9 cm), the body shows the delicate scale pattern typical of early 1960s production. The lip is explicitly marked with "Original RAPALA," a hallmark of authenticity for collectors tracking the evolution of Lauri Rapala’s designs. It retains its original bronze-finished treble hooks and hardware, which show a gentle character consistent with its age. Rated 4/5, the specimen remains in very respectable shape, preserving the fine black-to-silver gradient along the flanks and the distinct yellow eyes. These early F9 models were designed for surface or shallow presentations, staying true to the floating buoyancy that made balsa lures a staple in every tackle box.