The 100-share stock certificate was printed by American Bank Note Company. It has an engraving of James J. Hill, the founder of the railroad and the image of two “maidens” with an elaborate border. The certificate for 100 shares was issued to Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette, a financial services firm.

The certificate measures 8.25 x 12 inches.

The Great Northern Railway (GN), founded by "Empire Builder" James J. Hill and completed in 1893, was a prominent U.S. Class I railroad running from St. Paul, Minnesota, to Seattle, Washington. As the northernmost transcontinental line, it was vital for settling the Northwest and fostering agricultural and industrial growth. In 1970, it merged to form the Burlington Northern, now part of BNSF Railway.