This 8-digit display based on the MAX7219 chip on eBay for $10:
It makes a nice neat package, and is designed that you can put them together horizontally or vertically.
The chip is on the back, out of the way:
I managed to solder on the SMD capacitors and resistor:
You know what? I'm worried if I sneeze I'll never see them again. 
Plus, they are the devil to solder. You have to clamp them down or they just wander off.