As RichardEsterbrookwas setting up shop on the east coast in 1858, one of the most significant events to shape American history was just coming to a close. The Gold Rush brought 300,000 people from around the world to California, making San Francisco the central metropolis of the new frontier. Discovery of gold nuggets in the Sacramento Valley ten years earlier stoked the American dream, causing one of the first major gold rushes since the time of the Roman Empire.

The rivers of California had plans for this sleepy part of the country and the glistening waters drew industrialists, laborers, entrepreneurs and dreamers to sift them for ore and to secure their fortunes. This sense of making ones own way was not lost on the EnglishEsterbrook, who was himself trying to make a better life for himself and his family by seeking prosperity in the United States.

To celebrate the Gold Rushs place in American history and honorEsterbrooksown history, theEsterbrookEstiehas been reimagined in twolimited edition gilded colors, beginning with the release of theProspector Black and the Frontier Green.

ThePremiumGold RushEstieswill all be available as Standard and Oversized gold-trimmed Fountain Pens with standard Extra Fine, Fine, Medium, Broad or 1.1 Stub nibs. It is also available with the Journaler nib for $50 additionally.

And for the first time, this special editionEstieis available as a ballpoint pen.

The Gold RushEstiesare available in limited quantities and will be gone just as quickly as the gold boom was.

• UsesSchmidt 888 or 5888 refills.