Museum Archive: Vintage Weedless Johnson Silver Minnow, 2/5oz Green / Silver fishing spoon #7683

A vibrant green finish characterizes the convex side of this 2 1/4" (6 cm) spoon, providing a striking contrast to the silver plating on its reverse. Weighing 2/5 oz (12 g), this vintage Johnson Silver Minnow carries the classic weight distribution that Louis Johnson designed to keep the hook upright while navigating through heavy weeds. Stamped clearly on the back with the manufacturer's mark and the 'PAT'D' designation, the lure showcases its USA-made heritage and the specific product code 7683. The single hook remains protected by its original wire weed guard, maintaining the functionality that has defined this model since 1920. With a condition rating of 4/5, the piece displays a well-preserved surface on both the green painted face and the reflective silver underside. The construction features a copper and zinc alloy spoon, engineered to be thicker in the midsection to promote a steady rocking motion. This specific specimen highlights the early implementation of real silver plating, a choice made to ensure a whiter, more intense flash underwater compared to standard chrome finishes.