In total we discovered 46 sets, two of which were opened for research, so just 44 sealed examples remain. When these are gone, this particular find is finished.

The Formosa Shell Collection

A 1950s Natural History Set, Rediscovered

While sorting through long forgotten boxes of old stock, we uncovered a small number of mid twentieth century shell specimen sets, still sealed in their original 1950s plastic wrapping.

Labelled as originating from the Taiwan Strait, then widely known in the West as Formosa, these shells were assembled during a time when natural history collecting was both educational and popular. Today the island is known as Taiwan.

These sets have remained unopened for over seventy years.

Each bag contains fifty different species, ranging from familiar coastal shells to more delicate and unusual forms. They were originally produced as educational or souvenir collections and have a real mid century charm.

Opening the Set

Many of the shells are still wrapped in their original brown paper inside the sealed bag. Opening one feels like stepping back into the 1950s. The paper, the printing, the slightly formal species list it is all part of the experience.

What You’ll Receive

• 50 original shell specimens
A varied mix of gastropods and bivalves, including the Formosan Mitre, Shuttlecock Volva, Cuming’s Nutmeg and many more.

• An exclusive A3 identification poster
Produced by us at Devon Fox. We have retained the character of the original 1950s imagery while updating the scientific names and adding clear English common names to make identification far easier.

• The story behind the find
The reverse of the poster features the original 1950s sales sheet and explains how we rediscovered and researched these sets.

• Access to our online colour cheat sheet
Using actual shells from the packets, we have created a clearer photographic guide to help with identification:
Formosanshells

There is also a slightly chaotic video on our Facebook page of the two of us attempting to match them up. It did not go smoothly.

Please Read Before Purchasing

These are genuine seventy year old natural specimens and are sold as found.

Vintage finish
Some shells were coated with a 1950s varnish to enhance colour and shine. With age, this may flake. It can be left as part of the set’s history or gently removed with warm soapy water and a soft toothbrush.

Fragility
Certain species are naturally very thin and delicate. Minor chips are common and some shells may be cracked or broken. These sets have been sealed for decades and their condition reflects age and original storage.

Hidden shells
Smaller specimens were often placed inside larger shells for transport. Be sure to check inside before assuming anything is missing.

Important: Sealed Vintage Collector’s Item

These specimen sets remain sealed in their original 1950s wrapping. The unopened bag forms part of the item’s authenticity and collectible value.

They are sold as sealed collector’s items. As the bags have remained unopened for decades, the precise internal condition of individual shells cannot be guaranteed. Age related wear, fragility and minor breakages are possible and should be expected.

In a physical shop, this seal would not be broken for inspection. Please consider your purchase carefully before opening.

If you choose to open the sealed bag, this will materially change the condition of the item and significantly reduce its resale value. Where a returned item has been opened, a deduction may be made to reflect any loss in value, in accordance with UK consumer regulations.

Returns must include the complete set in its original packaging.