This pen set was made using sections from an inverted "U" rail and tie from the first generation of the Panama Railroad (1853-1869). This railroad was originally constructed to transport gold miners across the isthmus of Panama on their way to the gold fields of California. By traveling to Panama and taking a train to the Pacific coast of Panama and then catching another ship to California, the miners could eliminate months off of the transit time by going around the tip of South America. This is a handsome set with a thick protective layer of resin protecting both the rail and tie. There is a brass plate attached to the tie that reads " Panama Railroad Original Rail & Tie 1853-1869 ". This set is in excellent condition. I have had it for many years. The pen no longer writes, so if you plan to use it for writing, you would have to replace the ink cartridge. A wonderful collectible from the former Panama Canal Zone.