Shell up to 23 mm (about 1 inch) in length, elongate-ovate and solid, top of the spire frequently concave, sutures distinct and minutely ledged without being channeled. Whorls 6-7, apart from a worn protoconch, spire whorls flatsided or slightly convex, sculptured with fine and shallow spiral striae which number from 6-12 on the penultimate and from 25-35 on the body whorl; longitudinal sculpture consists of fine axial hairlines which become obsolete on the body whorl, and a few, irregular growth-striae. In some individuals there may be 3-4 slightly elevated spiral cords near the suture of the body whorl; the spiral striae continue all the way towards the margin of the outer lip, and towards the base the spiral grooves are wider apart. Aperture longer than the spire, narrow and smooth within; outer lip prominently thickened, smooth and waisted at the upper third, columella glazed, and with 5-6 oblique folds. Siphonal fasciole straight or slightly twisted, siphonal notch distinct. The colouring is similar to M. contracta and somewhat less saturated than in M. chrysostoma, with a creamy-white base colour and dark reddish-brown axial zones and blotches which form two irregular transverse zones on the body whorl; the columella and aperture are either cream, golden-yellow or orange. Lectotype Height 21,8 mm; Width 11,4 mm

This rare species has the appearance of a miniature M. chrysostoma Broderip, with the finer and more discreet sculpture of M. contracta Swainson. The actual geographical range is probably more extensive than is evident from available records.

Philippine Islands to Polynesia and Micronesia.