President Donald Trump, now in his second term, is leaving his mark everywhere—including on America’s money. According to a report on July 15, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced on social media that the U.S. Mint will issue a $1 coin featuring Trump’s portrait on the front, commemorating the nation’s 250th anniversary.
Bessent posted: “As we celebrate 250 years of independence, the Mint will begin striking this new $1 gold-colored coin to honor the eternal legacy of freedom and the enduring symbol of patriotism. Featuring President Trump, this coin highlights the strength of American values and our unwavering commitment to defending liberty for all.”
According to the image he shared, the coin design includes Trump’s profile along with the inscriptions “Liberty,” “In God We Trust,” and “1776-2026.” The reverse side features the bald eagle from the U.S. presidential seal and the words “United States of America.”
The Treasury Department stated in a release that production has already started at the Philadelphia Mint.
The $1 coin design as shared by Bessent on social media
Reacting to the news, Trump told Fox News on July 15 that he feels “honored.” He added, “They put me on a coin, and from what I understand, that’s pretty special.”
Critics, however, have raised eyebrows. A law passed in 1866 bans the use of living people’s portraits on U.S. currency. But as noted, that rule applies to paper money printed by the Bureau of Engraving and Printing, not coins minted by the U.S. Mint.
Congress authorized the Treasury Secretary in 2020 to mint coins for the 250th anniversary, but that law explicitly prohibits designs featuring living individuals.
In response, Bessent defended the move by pointing to historical precedent. “In 1926, the U.S. Mint issued a half-dollar coin for the 150th anniversary of independence that bore the portrait of then-President Calvin Coolidge,” he said. “So yes, we can put a living president on a coin.”
Since returning to the White House, Trump has been intent on leaving his imprint on U.S. currency. On March 26, the Treasury announced that Trump’s signature would appear on all new dollar bills—a first for a U.S. president, replacing the signature of the Treasury treasurer that had been there since 1861.