At Challenge Design, we don’t just make challenge coins—we tell stories in metal and enamel. Every coin we design is a tiny time capsule, packed with meaning and symbolism that brings history to life. And when it comes to designing for someone as formidable as Eric D. Herschmann, you know the challenge has to match the man.
Herschmann is a big name in the political and legal world—he’s a force. A sharp-witted attorney with a no-nonsense approach, he played a crucial role as Senior Advisor to the President during one of the most intense periods in modern political history. So, how do you capture that level of influence, precision, and boldness in a coin? That’s where depth in design comes in.
Depth isn’t just a visual trick—it’s the secret ingredient that makes a design pop, guiding the eye and adding layers of meaning. Just like in law or politics, the right details can make all the difference. In this post, we’re diving into how depth choices elevate challenge coin design and how we used them to craft a tribute worthy of Eric D. Herschmann’s legacy. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this coin stand out.
Senior Advisor to President Trump
Designing a challenge coin for someone like Eric D. Herschmann means capturing more than just a title—it’s about distilling a legacy. And what a legacy it is! The role that put him in the middle of history: Senior Advisor to the President. Being a Senior Advisor to the President is like being a Swiss Army knife in the world of politics. You’re not just an expert in one area; you’re expected to juggle strategy, communication, and sometimes damage control, all while keeping a laser focus on the administration's goals. I imagine the role requires equal parts tact and tenacity—giving hard truths when needed and finding solutions no one else can see. It’s the kind of job that, while intense, must be immensely rewarding, knowing you’re shaping decisions at the highest level.
Eric D. Herschmann
Of course, a title is just part of the story. The real intrigue comes from the person behind it. And if there’s one thing Eric D. Herschmann doesn’t do, it’s back down from a challenge. Eric D. Herschmann is an American attorney who served as a Senior Advisor to President Donald Trump from August 2020 until the end of Trump's term in January 2021. Prior to his White House role, Herschmann was a partner at the law firm Kasowitz Benson Torres and represented Trump during his first impeachment trial in 2019 and 2020. ( POLITICO )
Herschmann's role as Senior Advisor placed him at the center of significant events during the final months of the Trump administration, where he was recognized for his direct approach in addressing contentious issues.
Eric D. Herschmann strikes me as the kind of person you want in your corner during a tough fight. With his sharp legal mind and unflinching demeanor, he’s become well-known for his involvement in some of the most high-stakes political and legal battles of recent years. What stands out about Herschmann is his ability to cut through noise and get straight to the heart of an issue—whether defending clients or giving candid advice. It’s this no-nonsense approach, paired with an undeniable knack for strategy, that makes him such a compelling figure.
Depth Choices as an Element of Design
Herschmann’s career is all about cutting through the noise and getting to the heart of the matter. Funny enough, that’s exactly what depth in design does, too—it pulls focus, adds impact, and tells a story without saying a word. So how did we use this design principle to do justice to his legacy? Depth in design is like the unsung hero of visual storytelling. It’s the subtle difference between a flat, unremarkable image and something that pulls you right in. Personally, I love how strategic layering and shadowing can guide your focus, drawing attention to the most important elements while creating a sense of balance. Whether it’s in challenge coins, illustrations, or even arranging furniture in a room, depth adds that “wow” factor. It’s not just about aesthetics—it’s about functionality, ensuring the viewer's eye knows exactly where to go.
With Herschmann’s challenge coin, we knew a standard, flat design wouldn’t cut it. Instead, we played with layers—creating a deeply etched center that draws the eye straight to the White House North Lawn, making it feel like you could almost step right onto the grounds. Surrounding that, we raised the outer bands to add contrast and a sense of structure, almost like a frame highlighting a powerful moment in time. The result? A coin that doesn’t just show Herschmann’s legacy—it feels like it, with every detail adding depth, distinction, and a commanding presence that demands attention.
Now that we’ve broken down the power of depth in design, see it in action. From concept to creation, here’s how we transformed these ideas into a coin that stands out—just like Herschmann himself.
Eric D. Herschmann, Senior Advisor to the President Trump Challenge Coin
Creating a Challenge Coin for Eric D. Herschmann
Designing a challenge coin for Eric D. Herschmann, Senior Advisor to President Trump, was an opportunity to craft a piece as unique and distinguished as his role in the White House. This coin is a testament to his pivotal position during one of the most critical periods of modern presidential history, balancing tradition with bold design choices to reflect his impactful career and contributions.
The front of the coin commands attention with its antique gold finish, centering the Presidential Seal in a raised gold eagle design, perched against a striking matte blue background. The seal is elegantly encircled by a cream band, etched with gold text reading, “Executive Office of the President of the United States.” A thin red accent band adds a pop of color, while the outer gold border is adorned with intricate decorative etching, elevating the coin’s overall aesthetic.
The reverse side offers a fascinating departure from traditional designs, featuring a deeply etched center showcasing a meticulously detailed depiction of the White House North Lawn. Above the White House, a colorful American flag waves proudly in the sky, symbolizing patriotism and leadership. Surrounding this central artwork are raised borders, including a small Presidential Seal at the bottom, providing depth and contrast. A black band with gold raised text honors “Eric D. Herschmann, Senior Advisor to the President,” while a blue band highlights his connection to the “45th President of the United States of America, Donald J. Trump.” The red accent band and etched decorative gold border tie the design together, seamlessly mirroring the front.
This coin is a reflection of leadership, legacy, and the intricacies of serving at the highest levels of government. It encapsulates Herschmann’s dedication and the indelible mark he left on the Executive Office during a defining chapter of history.
There’s something incredibly satisfying about seeing a design come to life, especially when it’s as striking as this one. From the moment we sketched out the first concept to the final polish, this coin was a labor of love. It’s always a thrill to create something that doesn’t just look good but feels right—like a perfect match for the person it represents.
Capturing History One Challenge Coin At A Time.
Love what you see? At Challenge Design, we’re all about turning legacies into lasting keepsakes. Whether you're looking to honor a leader, commemorate a moment in history, or create something truly unique, we’re ready to bring your vision to life. Let’s design something unforgettable together—reach out today!
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