“This item is sold as a historical artifact and is not intended for medical use.”

Pre-owned antique condition. Shows age-appropriate wear, patina, and surface oxidation consistent with early medical instruments. Mechanism moves freely. No modern alterations. Original museum inventory tags remain attached.

Description

Antique early medical surgical instrument, identified as a tonsil snare / surgical loop tool, dating to approximately the late 19th to early 20th century.

This piece was acquired from the closure and dispersal of a Museum of Medical Science, where it had been held as part of an educational or historical collection. Original handwritten museum inventory tags are still attached, indicating cataloging and use for study or display.

The instrument features:

All-metal construction

Ring-style handles with sliding mechanism

Flat oval loop head used for tissue ligation

Knurled grip section for controlled handling

This type of tool was commonly used in early ENT procedures, including tonsillectomy, prior to the advent of modern disposable instruments.

A compelling piece for:

Medical history collectors

Museum or academic display

Oddities / curiosity cabinets

Film & theatrical prop collections

No attempt has been made to clean or restore the instrument, preserving its authentic historical condition.

Please review all photos carefully, as they are part of the description.

Item Details

Type: Antique medical surgical instrument

Instrument: Tonsil snare / surgical loop

Era: c. 1890–1910

Material: Early steel / metal alloy (exact composition unknown)

Origin: From a Museum of Medical Science collection

Condition: Original, unrestored

Shipping

Ships securely with padding and tracking. Insurance included.