You might not know Brian Thompson’s name, but you’ll know his work. Until recently, Thompson was one of only three journeyman banknote designers in the United States. Having joined the Bureau of Engraving and Printing in 1989, Thompson worked his way up—by way of a seven-year-long apprenticeship—to redesign $50 and $100 bills in 2013. When they were released, he became the first Black person to design an American banknote.

Elle Hunt: How is a banknote different from other design briefs?

Brian Thompson: I always say designing currency is the most difficult puzzle you will ever do. There are certain things that a banknote has to have, like security features, but you’ve got to be careful that the design works and is pleasing to the eye. It’s a subtle dance between authentication and aesthetics.

EH: Why do we have beautiful notes at all?