An impressive early Immell Bait Co. floating minnow, the wood body measuring 4 3/4" with good white iris glass eyes, red painted center spinner (marked with the Nov 1, 1910 patent date), original double hooks and finished in a striking pattern of fancy green and red spots (striped) over white, shiny Ex-/Ex with only to a few age lines, factory imperfections and a couple of miniscule nicks, definitely unfished. Coming in its very rare 5 1/4" picture box, the crisp top label with bold red "Chippewa" and clear lure illustration, which wraps to include the "Chippewa Floater" printed end flap. The interior of the box includes the Sheridan R. Jones collection stamp, with this exact combination pictured on page 66 of "The Life and Legend of Sheridan R. Jones". Completing this important early package is the extremely rare "The Chippewa Floating Baits" pink paper insert. A truly iconic offering in remarkable overall condition.

From the Sheridan Jones Collection.

Referred to as "America's pioneering outdoor writer", Sheridan Jones (1881-1958) was certainly one of the most respected and prolific angling writers of his era. Many of the lures offered in this auction, where noted, were personally owned by Jones. Several were given to the esteemed author and outdoor writer for his professional opinion, others as gifts by lure makers vying for his favor. Stated best by author Joseph Hilko in his 2010 book The Life and Legend of Sheridan R. Jones: "Jones' legacy as an educator, naturalist, professional writer and world-class angler is worthy of remembrance today".