Museum Archive: Vintage "Wright & McGill Pay-Master", 1/4oz Red / White / Nickel fishing spoon #0941

Measuring 1 1/2" (3.5 cm), the painted face of this spoon features a distinctive red and white pattern, accented by scale-like detailing and red circular eyes near the head. The Wright & McGill Pay-Master, identified as product code 0941, is a staple of mid-century American tackle boxes. Flipping the lure over reveals a polished nickel finish where the brand name and the 1/4 oz (7 g) weight are deeply stamped into the metal. In its 4/5 condition, the paint remains vibrant and the hardware, including the treble hook and split ring, is well-preserved. This lure's construction is centered on a teardrop-shaped metal blank that provides the necessary weight for casting into the strike zone. Every detail, from the clear stamp on the reverse to the specific paint application, reflects the manufacturing standards once common in the USA. The attachment point at the head is cleanly drilled, intended for standard split rings or snaps.