Museum Archive: Vintage Hofschneider Red Eye junior , 2/5oz Nickel fishing spoon #12952

Stamped clearly into the reverse nickel plating, the "Red-Eye Spinning Lure" mark from Hofschneider Corp of Rochester, N.Y., serves as a hallmark of mid-century American craftsmanship. This 2 1/4" (5.5 cm) junior model is built around a polished nickel body that reflects light prominently, catching the attention of predators even on slower retrieves. Two faceted red beads are securely mounted through the spoon's center, providing the iconic visual trigger that gives the lure its name. At 2/5 oz (11 g), the weight is balanced for casting into varied conditions where a classic spoon profile is preferred. The hardware is remarkably clean, featuring well-preserved split rings and a sharp treble hook, contributing to a condition rating of 5/5. Identified by product code 12952, the spoon's reflective surfaces remain bright and free of significant wear, maintaining the high-contrast look that made these lures a staple in vintage tackle boxes across the USA.