Anyone recognize the maker of this lure?

[mettendorff]

This lure came from an estate with the prior owner having worked years ago for the South Bend Bait Co.  There were several other never-used SBBC baits from the early 50s in the group, but this one is unmarked and I can't locate any similars in my books for that co. or any other.  It is a matte finish and, while pre-drilled holes are present for attaching hooks, none were ever installed.  Could this be a prototype that was never produced?  It has glass eyes (which predate all the other lures, which are pressed eye types) and is 6 cm (2.5") long.  Any help appreciated.

[lex-talon]

It looks to be a prototype of some sort. The fact that it has no markings, could be homemade.

[bs420luv]

It's a South Bend for sure...in a very tough collectable color.

Model is either a Midge Oreno or the Babe Oreno.

Google Joe's Old Lures and you can ask there, they can add alot to value and rarity.