The great seal is described in Utah Code Annotated, 1953, Volume 7a, section 67-2-9 as follows: "The Great Seal of the State of Utah shall be two and one-half inches in diameter, and of the following device; the center a shield and perched thereon an American Eagle with outstretching wings; the top of the shield pierced by six arrows crosswise; under the arrows the motto "INDUSTRY"; beneath the motto a beehive, on either side growing sego lilies; below the figures "1847"; on each side of the shield an American Flag.

The Roman numerals are currently "XVIII", representing Spencer Cox, who is the 18th governor of Utah since statehood.

As with many flags with seals and coats of arms, there is room for artistic interpretation while still following correct designs.

He had graphic artist Perry Van Schelt strengthen the design while following the same description and using the same colors as employed in the prototype.

Advisors in the project included John Hartvigsen, David Rindlisbach and Ronald L. Fox, Fox suggested the flag on the seal would have 45 stars divided between the two U.S. Flags shown on the seal, Utah was the 45th State.