This nice original earlier to mid 19th century W. Smith & Son sail makers needle packet still contains 9 period needles in a variety of stout sizes. A neat item for the Civil War era and collector, these heavy, hand cut needles will clean up nicely however they are offered here just as they came to us after decades of storage and likely just as they were carried in an original W. Smith & Son needle case. A necessary utility to the soldier in the field for repair of shelter half, Sibly tent, or leather accoutrement, these heavy steel needles were a staple among entrepreneurial soldiers and sailors who considered them a primary tool as they cut fanciful scrimshaw decorations in beef, whale bone or ivory for trade, sale or to send back home. A nice original and as found period personal item. (If you would like a single example of a slightly smaller #12 needle use the search word needle see our Item # 900 ) Thanks for visiting Gunsight Antiques !