Dating to 1915-17, an extraordinary combination of an unfished Ladybug Wiggler and an introductory picture box in exceptional condition. The short production 4 3/8" Wiggler is finished in red/white, with protruding good glass eyes, washer line tie and tail hook hanger, its original painted string legs, would grade Ex+ if not for expected tight age lines and very slight box wear/soiling. The incredible early Patent Pending marked box grades at least Ex-/Ex, with crisp wrap-around label, clear lure illustration on the top and marked "No. 9 White" on one flap. With only a couple of hook marks, expected age discoloration and including the Sheridan R. Jones collection stamp on the interior of the lid, this important box is in the nicest condition of the small number known. This exact bait in box is pictured in "The Life and Legend of Sheridan R. Jones" on page 71.

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".