Photo by X/SecScottBessent
The decision has already sparked political and public controversy, according to the AP. Although federal law prohibits the use of images of living presidents on U.S. banknotes, the rules for issuing commemorative coins are different. The Treasury Department states that the commemorative dollar is being minted within the scope of the department’s existing authority.
According to the U.S. Treasury Department, the final design of the coin was previously approved by the Commission of Fine Arts. However, the final version differs from the initial design: instead of a pure gold coin, a gold-plated version will be issued, making this commemorative edition more affordable.
The obverse features Donald Trump in a business suit. Around the rim are the inscriptions “LIBERTY,” “IN GOD WE TRUST,” and the dates 1776–2026, symbolizing the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States. The reverse features a bald eagle from the Great Seal of the United States, along with the inscriptions “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and the Latin motto “E PLURIBUS UNUM” (“Out of Many, One”).
U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, commenting on the release of the new coin, stated that it is intended to serve as a symbol of American patriotism and respect for the principles of freedom. According to him, the commemorative dollar reflects the values upon which the country was founded and is dedicated to the 250th anniversary of American statehood.
Critics of the initiative note that the decision breaks with a long-standing American tradition of not depicting sitting presidents on official currency. Supporters of the project, in turn, emphasize that this is a commemorative coin, the issuance of which is governed by separate legal provisions and does not affect banknotes in circulation.
The issuance of the commemorative coin is one of the administration’s initiatives timed to coincide with the celebration of the 250th anniversary of the United States. The commemorative dollar is expected to go on sale this fall and will join a series of collectible issues dedicated to significant events in American history.
