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THE BASS-ORENO

  This classic lure was patented by J.S. Olds in 1915. It was produced in over 45 colors and in great volume by The South Bend Bait Company of South Bend, Indiana between 1916 and 1964. A very common lure, its current value is about $20.00. The red, white and blue Bass-Oreno though, is different.

  During the depression the company made a special, limited edition - a red, white and blue Bass-Oreno, which it gave away for free as a patriotic gesture if you bought a U.S. Savings bond

  The current value is about $1500 - but only in this color pattern and because of this story!

  The term "oreno" by the way was used in the mid 1900's to describe something unique like a beautiful woman or auto.

                                                            

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THE BASS-ORENO

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