The Heddon Pumpkinseed is a highly collectible and sought-after vintage fishing lure produced by the Heddon Company. It was first introduced in the 1930s and was produced in various forms and color patterns until the 1970s. The Pumpkinseed lure is characterized by its sunfish-shaped body, which resembles a pumpkin seed, hence the name.
Value: The value of a Heddon Pumpkinseed lure can vary greatly depending on factors such as the specific model, age, condition, color pattern, and rarity. Prices can range from as low as $20 for common models in poor condition to well over $1,000 for rare variations in mint condition. The most valuable Pumpkinseed lures are typically the early wooden models with glass eyes and unique color patterns. As with any collectible, the market for vintage fishing lures can fluctuate, and values may change over time.
Variations: Heddon produced several variations of the Pumpkinseed lure over the years, including different sizes, materials, and color patterns. Some of the more notable variations include:
- Material: Early Pumpkinseed lures were made of wood, while later models were made from plastic. Wooden models are generally more valuable and sought-after by collectors.
- Eyes: Some Pumpkinseed lures were produced with glass eyes, while others had painted or tack eyes. Glass-eyed models are considered more valuable.
- Size: The Pumpkinseed lure was made in various sizes to target different fish species. The most common sizes were 2 inches (Little Punkinseed) and 2¾ inches (Punkinseed).
- Color patterns: The Heddon Pumpkinseed lure was produced in a wide range of color patterns, with some being more common and others quite rare. Examples include frog, perch, shad, sunfish, and many others. Some of the rarest color patterns command the highest prices among collectors.
- Hardware: Different hook and hardware configurations were used over the years, including single and treble hooks, as well as various types of line ties and hook hangers.
