This RARE dual purpose steel medical / surgical instrument measures only 2 1/2 inches in length and is in excellent condition. It is hand held and operated by using the thumb and index finger to hold or apply pressure in the center for control. The zig-zag central pattern may just be decorative or functional to aid in control. This pattern is rough so more control is assured if finger nail is inserted in area. Interestingly, this rough area feels like it could be used as a file. Squeezing this spring area operates the two smooth flat ends that would function as a tweezer or forceps to grasp and manipulate delicate tissue or dressing. The opposite end is a pointed arrow shaped blade to puncture a vein or for making a tiny incision. It would have been used in an area with limited access and the need for delicate control. It has been suggested that such a surgical instrument may have been part of a Civil War military medical kit where conservation of space would have been important. We have not been able to find similar examples and the extremely small size probably resulted in loss and contributed to the rarity.  This is an unusual item to be included in your collection of medical surgical instruments. NO RESERVER!