Trump's Face Appears on New US $1 Coin

United States President Donald Trump has become the first living person in decades to appear on US currency, with a new $1 commemorative coin featuring his portrait now officially on sale.

The US Mint began releasing the coin at noon Eastern Time on Tuesday as part of celebrations marking the 250th anniversary of the United States. The gold-coloured coin carries Trump's portrait on the front, alongside the words "LIBERTY" and "IN GOD WE TRUST".

The reverse features an image of the US presidential seal, with the number "250" displayed on its shield.

The US Mint described the coin as a "once-in-a-generation" issue intended to reflect the "spirit, pride, and legacy" of the United States as it approaches its semiquincentennial anniversary.

The decision to place Trump's likeness on the coin has nevertheless attracted criticism, as portraits of living people have traditionally been excluded from US currency.

Why was the coin created?

The coin forms part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to associate the president with preparations for the nation's 250th anniversary.

Since returning to the White House, Trump's name or image has been attached to a number of government-related properties and products. These have included the Kennedy Center, the US Institute of Peace, National Parks passes, a special-edition passport and the administration's proposed $1 million "gold card" visa.

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced the commemorative coin on social media on July 15, describing it as a celebration of American values and the country's commitment to freedom.

The administration has also cited historical precedent for featuring a sitting president on an anniversary coin.

In 1926, the US Mint produced a commemorative coin marking the 150th anniversary of American independence. It carried side-by-side portraits of George Washington and then-President Calvin Coolidge.

Critics, however, note an important distinction: the 1926 coin was a commemorative issue and was not designed for general circulation.

Could Trump appear on other US currency?

The administration has also discussed putting Trump's image on a proposed $250 banknote.

Bessent said in May that preparations were under way for the possible bill, although congressional approval would be required before such a note could be issued.

What does the new coin cost?

Although the coin has a face value of $1, the US Mint is selling it at a substantial premium.

A roll containing 25 coins costs $61, while a 100-coin bag is priced at $154.50.

Despite the higher purchase price, the Mint says the coins are legal tender and can be used for ordinary transactions at their $1 face value.

Is Trump's portrait legal?

Federal law generally states that only deceased individuals may have their portraits displayed on US currency and securities.

The rule dates back to legislation passed in 1866, following controversy over a Treasury official who placed his own portrait on a five-cent note.

However, legislation signed by Trump during his first presidency created an exception for coins commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States.

The Circulating Collection Coin Redesign Act of 2020 authorised the Treasury to produce $1 coins featuring designs representing the semiquincentennial.

While the law prohibits portraits of living or deceased individuals on the reverse of these coins, it does not impose the same restriction on the obverse.

Trump's portrait appears on the obverse, or front, of the new coin, allowing the Mint to argue that the design complies with the legislation.

The release therefore marks a significant departure from traditional US currency design, while remaining within the legal framework governing the special 250th-anniversary coins.