A scarce cased set of military surgeons’ needles manufactured by Arnold & Sons for John Bell & Croyden Ltd, 50/52 Wigmore Street, London W.1, complete in their original card case and inner waxed paper wraps. The packaging carries the British military broad arrow, indicating government issue for forces or service hospitals.
 
Inside the elegant gold‑bordered case, the needles remain apparently unused and protected by translucent waxed paper. The outer black slip case is printed with the John Bell & Croyden crest and a hand‑applied broad arrow, tying this set to one of London’s best‑known medical suppliers.
 
These needles would have been standard kit for a mid‑20th‑century British surgeon, used in theatres or field hospitals for suturing wounds and soft tissue. For today’s collector they offer a compact, visually appealing slice of medical and military history—perfect for:
- Medical or nursing memorabilia collections
- WW2 / Cold War military and medic displays
- Curiosity cabinets and vintage pharmacy interiors
 
Condition
Excellent vintage condition. The needle strips and inner paper show light age toning and minor handling marks; needles look bright and unused. Outer slip case has minor edge rubbing and a clear broad‑arrow mark (see photos).
 
Important
Sold as a historical collectible only. Not sterile and not suitable for any medical or practical use.
 
Carefully packed and shipped tracked from the UK, this Arnold & Sons / John Bell & Croyden needle set is a small but evocative survival from the golden age of British surgery.