Lion Country Safari, Inc. - Now Owned by Billionaire Larry Ellison - 1980's dated Stock Certificate

Animal Park Stock printed by Security-Columbian Banknote Company. Superb multicolored scene covering entire stock of lions, car, and zebra stripes at borders.

Lion Country Safari, Inc. was established in the summer of 1967 in rural Western Palm Beach County, Florida. It introduced a revolutionary concept to American zoology by becoming the first drive-through, “cageless zoo” in the United States. Developed by a group of British and South African entrepreneurs, the park aimed to provide families with an immersive experience of an African game reserve without the expense of an international trip. Initially, the 600-acre preserve featured only free-roaming lions. However, it quickly expanded its naturalistic habitats to accommodate nearly 1,000 animals. This diverse population eventually included rhinoceroses, giraffes, chimpanzees, and the largest herd of zebras in North America.

Over its nearly six-decade history, the attraction transformed from a simple driving trail into a comprehensive wildlife destination. It introduced a 55-acre walk-through adventure park called “The Gardens,” a petting zoo, and an award-winning KOA campground. To prioritize vehicle safety and animal welfare, management made several modifications over time. Notably, after 2005, lions were confined to dedicated, securely fenced enclosures within the safari. The park also evolved into a highly respected, AZA-accredited sanctuary, actively participating in global Species Survival Plans for threatened and endangered wildlife. In a significant milestone in early 2026, the founding family concluded 58 years of independent leadership by selling the preserve for $30 million to a foundation controlled by billionaire Larry Ellison. This sale ensured the park’s legacy as a cornerstone of Florida tourism and its commitment to continuous conservation.