Museum Archive: Vintage South Bend Super-Duper 506, 1/4oz Nickel fishing spoon #8512

Stamped with the "South Bend SUPER-DUPER 506" branding on its upper surface, this 1 3/4" (4.5cm) lure features the distinctive U-shaped bent metal construction that has been a mainstay in tackle boxes for generations. Weighing in at 1/4oz (7g), the specimen is finished in a bright nickel plating on the exterior, while the interior curve is coated in a vivid red paint to provide a high-contrast visual profile. On the inner side, the "PAT. PEND." marking is clearly visible, a technical detail identifying it as an earlier production run from South Bend. The hardware consists of a single treble hook attached to a split ring at the trailing edge, which remains in excellent condition. This specific specimen is rated at 5/5, exhibiting a very smooth metal finish and remarkably well-preserved interior paint. Labeled under product code 8512, this USA-made lure is built for casting and trolling, representing a unique mid-century approach to metal lure design.