The U.S. Treasury Department says the United States Mint will produce a commemorative $1 coin featuring President Donald Trump as part of the nation’s 250th anniversary observances.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced the plan Wednesday, saying the coin is intended to honor liberty, patriotism and American values. Renderings released by Bessent show Trump’s face on the obverse alongside “In God We Trust,” with “Liberty” and “1776-2026” around the edge. The reverse shows the Great Seal of the United States, including a bald eagle holding arrows and an olive branch, with the number “250” incorporated into the design.
A Treasury spokesperson told news outlets the coin is in production and expected to become available in the fall. It will have a gold-like finish but be made of non-precious metals.
The announcement comes amid broader efforts by the Trump Administration to place the President’s name, image or signature on federal items and programs. Previous proposals have included adding Trump’s signature to future currency, developing $250 bills bearing his face, and approving a 24-karat gold commemorative coin with his image.
The legal questions center on federal restrictions against placing living people on U.S. currency and securities. A 2020 law authorizes $1 coins for the semiquincentennial, but bars a head-and-shoulders portrait or bust on the reverse, as well as any portrait of a living person on that side. Earlier drafts reportedly showed Trump on both sides; the final version places him only on the front.
Bessent has argued the design is lawful, citing a Calvin Coolidge coin issued for the 150th anniversary. Democratic senators have sought investigations and legislation to block related currency plans, while Republican Rep. Thomas Massie also criticized the coin. The dispute is likely to continue as Treasury moves toward release, with supporters emphasizing commemoration and critics questioning legality and precedent.