A rail fastener includes a spring clip of unitary rod-like construction having a mounting leg retained by an anchor member fixed relative a cross-tie. The clip leg is joined to an arm bearing upon the anchor member with the arm then joined to an arcuate loop crossing over the mounting leg diagonally thereto. The clip terminates in a rail arm engaging the base flange of a rail with a substantial downward clamping pressure being applied thereto. The clip mounting leg may be an integral enlargement forming a diameter to provide a mating fit within a bore through the anchor member or alternatively, the clip mounting leg may support a separate sleeve having an outer diameter mating with the anchor member bore.