Museum Archive: Vintage Weedless Johnson Silver Minnow, 1oz Silver (Silver Plated) fishing spoon #2189

Plated in genuine silver for a distinct, white flash underwater, this 4" (10cm) spoon is a prime example of Louis Johnson's legendary design. A substantial weight of 1oz (28g) makes it well-suited for long casting into thick vegetation where predators hide. On the underside of the lure, the crisp stamping of "JOHNSON'S SILVER MINNOW" alongside patent pending marks confirms its vintage USA production origins. This specific piece, identified by product code 2189, features an integrated single hook shielded by a stiff wire weed guard, allowing it to navigate through lily pads and heavy grass. The silver finish on this specimen is exceptionally well-preserved, earning it a condition rating of 5/5. Because real silver was used rather than chrome, the reflection maintains a unique visibility even as light fades at depth. The spoon's physical construction is slightly thicker along the center axis, which serves to keep the hook oriented upward during the retrieve. This vintage American-made specimen reflects the original manufacturing standards of the 1920-era invention before production eventually shifted abroad.