1.
Your first stop is the propeller. Does the propeller have writing
on it? (Name on prop). If it says 'Dowagiac' on the prop, then you have
a post 1912 lure. If there is no writing on the prop, (No name on
prop), then it's pre-1912, IF it is a Heddon lure.
See
props photos
2.
Next, let's determine the type of hook hardware. Brass cups are
generally the earliest, c.1903-5, then nickel plated cup hardware is
next, post 1905, then L-rig hardware is post 1914. Cup hardware
ended in 1914, L-rig hardware stared in 1914. If your lure has
nickel plated cup hardware, it's pre-1914. If it has brass
hardware, it's pre-1906. Gold wash cups are the earliest and are
only found on 1902-3 lures.
See
cup and L-rig hardware
photos
3.
Now let's look at information about belly weights and other easily
identifiable features. If you have a three or five hook minnow,
and there are three belly weights, this is c. 1903. Two belly
weights, in general are post 1904, to c.1906. After early 1907,
expect one large or one smaller belly weight. The number and size
of the gill marks is very important too. If the gill marks are
'sweeping' and continue up into the cup rig hardware, this is typical of
1905 two belly weight lures. Red blush sprayed on the chin, is
typical of 1904 cup rig lures, etc.
See the
extensive chart on
this page for specific details that will help you determine which lure and age
you have.
4.
The next topic to discuss is the shape of the body and gill marks.
See
Heddon Lure Details: photos of various size and body styles
5.
The shape of the lure nose can help
determine the approximate age.
See
photos of lure nose shapes
See
body shapes to determine age
6.
Often the box the lure came in
(if you have one) will help determine the age for you.
A list of Heddon
boxes which were
used prior to 1920
A list of Heddon
boxes used prior to 1920,
more information
A list of Heddon
wood boxes
FULL
HEDDON SITE
INDEX & ARTICLES
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A FULL
TOPICAL INDEX FOR ANTIQUELURES
A LIST
OF ALL EARLY FISHING LURES IN THIS COLLECTION