In a significant move marking the 250th anniversary of the United States, the US Treasury Department has started the production of a new commemorative $1 coin featuring former President Donald Trump. The US Mint is set to release this special coin in the fall, aligning with the nation’s milestone celebration. The final coin design, which differs slightly from the initial concept, was greenlit earlier this year and now includes a gold-colored finish rather than being made from solid gold.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has emphasized that the coin symbolizes America’s enduring legacy of liberty and patriotism. He highlighted that this commemorative piece reflects the nation’s core values and its unwavering commitment to freedom. On one side of the coin, a portrait of Donald Trump is accompanied by the word “LIBERTY,” the years “1776–2026,” and the phrase “IN GOD WE TRUST.” The reverse side features the iconic bald eagle from the Great Seal of the United States, along with the national motto, “E PLURIBUS UNUM.”
The announcement has sparked some controversy, as it appears to contravene a longstanding federal law that generally prohibits the depiction of living presidents on US currency. However, Treasury officials have defended their decision, citing that the secretary possesses the authority to approve commemorative coin issues under specific circumstances.
This commemorative issue, celebrating a quarter-millennium of the United States, has been positioned as a tribute to the historical and cultural values that have shaped the nation. While the coin’s production has been met with mixed reactions, it underscores a tradition of using commemorative currency to honor significant national milestones and figures.