#United States #Denver #Morphy Auctions #Fishing Lures #Edens Collection

Edens Antique Fishing Lure Collection Auction

On May 17, 2025, Morphy Auctions held a remarkable event that no fishing enthusiast could overlook. The gallery in Denver, Pennsylvania, transformed into a hub of excitement as collectors eagerly gathered to participate in the highly anticipated auction of Wayne and Lori Edens' renowned antique fishing lure collection. After achieving a staggering total of $900,000 during the first part of the sale last December, anticipation for the follow-up was palpable as participants sought to reel in a slice of history.

A staggering $863,000 was generated in the second installment of this exquisite collection, reinforcing the Edens' status as notable names in the world of collectible fishing paraphernalia.

Highlights from the Auction

The standout lot of the day was a brown-spotted Wilcox Wiggler, graded as Near-Excellent, featuring pristine solid-glass eyes and exquisite hardware. This unique lure, one of the rarest in the Edens collection, was sold along with its original, equally rare factory box for an impressive $39,600, far surpassing the pre-sale estimate of $10,000 to $20,000. The attention to detail and the condition of the lure, evident by its hardware likely never having touched water, made it a crowning jewel in the auction.

Another notable entry that captured collector interest was a Extraordinary 1905 Heddon Hi-Forehead 150 Minnow Combo bait. In immaculate condition, this bait boasted solid yellow paint paired with hand-painted sweeping red gills and sold for $23,400, exceeding the expected range of $10,000 to $20,000.

An early model Trory Minnow from the Enterprise Mfg. Co. also made waves, with its blocky wooden construction and flawless glass eyes dating back to 1900 or 1901. Its condition was graded as Excellent Minus, and it fetched $23,400, showcasing its superior craftsmanship against an estimate of $6,000 to $12,000.

A Taste of History

The auction not only featured rare lures but also pieces steeped in history. One such artefact was a lure from Twin Lakes, Ohio, representing an iconic transition between rotary and cedar plug designs of the late 1890s. This bait, with its natural wood grain and striking copper 'perch' stripes, was sold for $14,100, solidified its value in the history of fishing tackle.

Furthermore, attendees were enchanted by a Heddon Introductory Model 155 all-brass Dowagiac Minnow, graded as Excellent, which realized a winning bid of $20,900. This specific model captured the essence of rarity and condition combined, as few examples feature such well-maintained design and attributes.

Conclusion

The success of the auction highlights the value and allure of antique fishing lures and ignites enthusiasm among collectors. Morphy Auctions continues to be a vital player in the world of collectibles, with events like these eagerly awaited by enthusiasts around the nation. Each auction not only provides a platform for buying and selling but also educates attendees about the rich history of fishing leads and their evolution.

For more information about future auctions and remarkable collections, visit Morphy Auctions.