On Friday, the United States Mint released a limited‑edition $1 coin bearing former President Donald Trump’s portrait, marking the first time a living president has appeared on American currency in 100 years. The coin, issued to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States, carries the words “In God We Trust” on its reverse side.
How the Coin Was Created
According to the Mint, the design was intended to capture “the spirit, pride, and legacy of a nation approaching its landmark anniversary.” The coins are priced at $61 for a roll of 25 and $154.50 for a bag of 100. Within hours of going on sale, the Mint’s website reported that the coins were “not currently in stock.”
Legal and Legislative Context
Federal law traditionally bars the printing of U.S. money with the image of a living person. Trump allies in Congress have introduced legislation that would allow an exception, though the proposal is currently stalled. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent noted that a living president has previously appeared on U.S. currency: a half‑dollar commemorating the 150th anniversary in 1926 featured President Calvin Coolidge.
Future Currency Plans
Bessent also mentioned plans to issue a new $250 bill with Trump’s portrait. The Circulating Collectible Coin Redesign Act of 2020, cited by the Trump administration, prohibits living portraits on the reverse side of coins but does not explicitly cover the obverse, where Trump’s likeness appears.
While the Thayer Amendment of 1866 bans living portraits on U.S. notes, it traditionally does not apply to coins, allowing the Mint to proceed with the new design.
Collectors and enthusiasts are watching closely as the coin’s availability and legal status evolve.
