Museum Archive: Vintage Weedless Johnson Silver Minnow UV, 3/5oz fishing spoon #10161

Vibrant orange paint with black tiger stripes defines this 2 3/4" (7 cm) specimen, an original American-made version of the Weedless Johnson Silver Minnow UV. Weighing 3/5 oz (17 g), the spoon is constructed from a specialized copper and zinc alloy, engineered with a thicker center to help the lure maintain a consistent hook-up orientation. This vintage piece, product code 10161, incorporates a UV-reactive finish that provides a distinct visual signature in low-light or deep-water scenarios. The integrated single hook is paired with a classic metal weed guard, a design hallmark since Louis Johnson first tackled weedy habitats with this model back in 1920. While current manufacturing for this brand has moved to China, this specific lure is sourced from the highly sought-after USA production era. The condition is rated at 4/5, exhibiting a well-preserved finish and robust hardware. The spoon is designed to rock back and forth through a 270-degree angle, a mechanical property of its specific weight distribution.