When designing the bill, Thompson hoped to keep elements of historical versions of the bills, including an expression related to Benjamin Franklin’s signature on the Declaration of Independence. On the new note, Thompson redesigned the quill, a facet that he included on previous designs to signify Franklin’s signing of the Declaration. Through significant places on the bill, the 100 serves as a beam of light onto Franklin’s presence. Even the scripted words from the Declaration are carefully sequenced so as to not be easily copied by counterfeiters.
Thompson’s design was handed off to engraver William Fleishell, who spent five months engraving his design so that it could be printed on plates. He accomplishes this through handwork and digital engraving.
Thompson’s design and U.S. currency is in high demand all over the world.
Little Known Black History Fact: Brian Thompson was originally published on blackamericaweb.com
