Museum Archive: Vintage Weedless Johnson Silver Minnow, 3/16oz Copper fishing spoon #6825

Measuring 1 3/4" (4.5cm) in length, this particular specimen showcases a warm copper finish rather than the common silver plating. Weighing 3/16oz (6g), the spoon is crafted from a specialized copper and zinc alloy that is noticeably thicker toward the center of the body. The underside clearly displays the "JOHNSON SILVER MINNOW" stamping alongside "MADE IN U.S.A.", identifying it as a vintage production prior to the brand's manufacturing move overseas. A sturdy metal wire guard protects the single integrated hook, a hallmark design by Louis Johnson from 1920 intended for navigating heavy vegetation. This piece, identified by product code 6825, retains a bright surface throughout, with the hook point and wire guard remaining in high-quality form. The construction is designed to facilitate a rocking motion through a 270-degree angle during retrieval to prevent line twist. The overall state of the metal and hardware is excellent, warranting a condition rating of 5/5.