Very scarce early patent model featuring cup rig, pigtail line tie and unmarked side diving planes, a characteristic found on only the earliest models. Condition of this c1914 white strawberry spot finish bait is about Ex-, due only to an old over-varnish and fine age lines, definitely unfished. Also includes a seldom seen early box with "Floating Diving Wabbling" illustrated flaps, solid Ex-/Ex and correctly stamped 1600S on both ends, and including the Sheridan R. Jones collection stamp on the interior of the lid. This exact bait and box appear on page 62 of "The Life and Legend of Sheridan R. Jones".

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".