A surgical tool container system for the organization, sterilization, storage and presentation of a group of surgical instruments for selection and retrieval by a medical practitioner during a surgical procedure. The container system includes an outer case having separable base and lid portions with a tool-holding tray removably inserted within the base portion of the case. The tray is provided with a plurality of holes formed therethrough and wherein a respective plurality of elastomeric grommets are fixed to the tray. Each grommet includes an axially extending bore wherein the shank of a surgical tool may be inserted and frictionally engaged in a generally upright orientation with respect to the tray. The grommets removably secure the tools in their original positions within the container regardless of container orientation, yet also permit the quick and easy one-hand retrieval of a tool from the container during a surgical procedure, as well as equally quick and easy replacement of the tool within the container for subsequent sterilization and use cycles.