The Treasury Department is currently contemplating the minting of a unique $1 coin that features the likeness of President Donald Trump on both sides. This initiative aims to honor Trump while also commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States, which will be celebrated next year. The proposed coin, designed to mark the semiquincentennial anniversary of the nation’s founding, includes significant elements that reflect both Trump’s image and pivotal moments in American history.
The initial draft of the coin showcases Trump's profile on one side, prominently displaying the phrase IN GOD WE TRUST alongside the dates 1776 and 2026. This side of the coin pays homage to the founding principles of the nation. On the reverse side, the coin features a striking image of Trump raising his fist, reminiscent of his posture shortly after an attempted assassination during a 2024 presidential campaign rally in Pennsylvania. Surrounding this powerful image are the words FIGHT FIGHT FIGHT, which Trump passionately conveyed to his supporters in the aftermath of the attack.
U.S. Treasurer Brandon Beach took to X to confirm the authenticity of the sketches, stating, “No fake news here. These first drafts honoring America's 250th Birthday and @POTUS are real.” Beach expressed optimism about sharing further details once the current government shutdown has concluded. Additionally, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent shared Beach's message on his own X account, indicating a unified front within the Treasury Department regarding this unique project.
As of now, a final design for the commemorative $1 coin has not been finalized. A spokesperson for the Treasury Department emphasized that the first draft captures the resilient spirit of the nation and its democratic values, stating, “We look forward to sharing more soon.” It’s worth noting that while commemorative coins are legal tender, they are not intended for general circulation, as outlined by the United States Mint.
Interestingly, the legal framework surrounding the minting of such coins is complex. A federal law signed by Trump in January 2021 permits the Treasury secretary to mint $1 coins with designs that symbolize the semiquincentennial during the anniversary year. However, this legislation also includes specific stipulations that prohibit the depiction of any living person on the reverse side of commemorative coins. This prohibition aims to maintain a tradition that dates back to an 1866 Act of Congress, which prevents the portrayal of living individuals on currency to avoid the perception of a monarchy.
The Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco has noted that this long-standing tradition is upheld to ensure that currency reflects a democratic ethos. As the Treasury Department navigates the complexities of this potential minting, it remains unclear whether any previous commemorative coins or other currency have featured a living president. As discussions continue, the future of this proposed $1 coin remains in the balance, with both supporters and critics eagerly awaiting further developments.
