The United States Treasury Department has unveiled that the US Mint has started the production of a new commemorative $1 coin featuring former President Donald Trump. This initiative is a part of the celebrations for the 250th anniversary of the United States, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s history.
Set to be released this fall, the new coin went through a design approval process earlier this year. While the final version that is now being produced differs slightly from the original design, it boasts a gold-colored finish instead of being made from solid gold. This change is among the minor adjustments made to the initial concept before it entered production.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent emphasized that the coin serves as a tribute to America’s enduring legacy of liberty and patriotism. He stated that it symbolizes the country’s core values and its unwavering commitment to freedom, encapsulating the spirit of the United States over the past 250 years.
The obverse of the coin displays a portrait of Donald Trump accompanied by the word “LIBERTY,” the dual dates “1776–2026,” and the phrase “IN GOD WE TRUST.” On the reverse side, the traditional bald eagle from the Great Seal of the United States is depicted, along with the national motto “E PLURIBUS UNUM.”
The decision to feature a living president on US currency has sparked controversy, given that longstanding federal law generally prohibits such depictions. Despite this, Treasury officials assert that the Secretary of the Treasury holds the authority to approve commemorative coin issues under certain conditions, which they have exercised in this instance.