Indeed--the same thing would have happened with AA, UA, DL, and any other carriers just a decade ago--before the advent of electronic ticketing. Basically, what you had in your hand the ticket itself, not just a copy, so it's not a matter of reprinting the ticket.

What I do find odd is the refund policy. I seem to recall there being no service charge (the 10% refund fee did apply), but you had to wait for a year so Amtrak could ensure the ticket was not used in that time (since tickets are valid for travel or exchange for up to a year after the initial travel date).

Also, Amtrak gives passengers both tickets on a round-trip itinerary in part because many times, the return is from an unstaffed station, where you would not have the ability to pick up a ticket.