On January 24, 1848, James Wilson Marshall found flakes of gold in a river at Sutter's Mill in Coloma, California. Within a year, hundreds of thousands of people from around the world were travelling to California in hopes of finding the mother lode and striking it rich. Now you can celebrate this exciting time in U.S. history with the Gold Rush Model Train Collection, available exclusively from The Bradford Exchange, Hawthorne Village Division. Your On30-scale model train collection begins with Issue One, Gold Rush Steam Locomotive. Soon, your collection will continue with Issue Two, Gold Rush Tender with removable replica sculptures of Gold Rush era coins, and FREE 14-piece track set, speed controller and power pack. Next, this collection continues with Issue Three, Baggage Car with replica 1850 "Miss Liberty" coin sculpture, and additional coordinating Gold Rush model train cars, each a separate issue to follow.‡

This real working, gleaming metallic gold- and silver-tone model train runs on any HO-gauge track and is resplendent in meticulous details. Each train car in the collection features raised-relief sculpted golden replicas of authentic Gold Rush era coins, including the highly sought-after "Five Eagle" $50 gold coin struck in 1851. The "Miss Liberty" $20 gold coin and the "Defiant Eagle" octagonal $1 gold coin are also showcased on this illuminated electric train set. Further adding to this magnificent model train collection are low-relief images of "forty-niners" painted in metallic gold and silver on each car, honoring those who bravely risked it all in their quest for new-found wealth along the California Trail. Plus, the headlight of the locomotive lights up for a dramatic touch. Strong demand is anticipated for this Gold Rush-inspired collectible model train, so order now!

This is not a toy. Ages 14+