Golden Spike Ring

 c. 1869

This double seal ring, on display in the Diplomatic Gallery, made from golden spike driven into the Pacific railroad. The railroad was completed May 10, 1869. The ring set contains moss agate from Nevada and gold quartz from Colorado, two states whose connection completed the railroad line 86 across the continent.  Enameled on one side of the ring, “LAST SPIKE/PRR” and “DRIVEN MAY 10TH/1869” on the opposite side. Inscribed in script on the inside of the band: “from D. Hewes”; “Wm H. Seward.” The ring was given to Seward by David Hewes of San Francisco, CA. Five of these rings were made, one is gifted to Seward.