The U.S. Mint has started producing a new $1 coin bearing President Donald Trump’s face. This initiative marks America’s 250th birthday celebration, as announced by the Treasury Department. The design of the commemorative coin, slated for release in the fall, received approval from the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts earlier this year. Members of the commission were appointed by Trump. Although the finished coin unveiled on Wednesday deviates from the initial design, it features a non-gold construction with a gold finish.
According to Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, the coin aims to honor the enduring legacy of liberty and function as a lasting symbol of patriotism. In a post on X, Bessent stated, “Featuring President Trump, it celebrates the strength of American values and the promise of a nation dedicated to preserving freedom for all.” On Wednesday, Trump expressed his views on Fox Business Network, considering the decision to feature his face on the coin as “very unusual” but “honored,” adding that the coin was “very cute.”
Trump has shown a preference for embedding his name and likeness within historical contexts, evidenced by his renaming of institutions such as the U.S. Institute of Peace and the Kennedy Center performing arts venue, along with a new class of battleships.
The depiction of Trump’s face on the coin has sparked criticism, particularly because federal law prohibits the depiction of a living president on U.S. currency. Still, the treasury secretary holds the authority to approve the minting and issuance of coins under certain circumstances.
The coin’s obverse side features an image of Trump in a suit and tie, wearing a stern expression. The word “LIBERTY” arches over the top, while “1776-2026” aligns at the bottom. The phrase “IN GOD WE TRUST” occupies the center.
The reverse side presents the traditional image of the bald eagle from the Great Seal of the United States. “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” appears along the top, and the Latin phrase “E PLURIBUS UNUM” spans across the shield on the eagle’s breast.
One of the notable differences from the approved design is Trump’s pose; it lacks the presence of his fists atop what is supposed to be a desk as he leans forward. The Treasury Department did not provide explanations regarding the alterations from the originally approved design.
In March, the Treasury Department announced that it would incorporate Trump’s signature on all new U.S. paper currency. Traditionally, U.S. paper currency carries the signatures of the treasury secretary and the treasurer, not the president.
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