U.S. Treasury considers $1 coin featuring Trump for 250th anniversary

In the United States, plans for the nation's 250th anniversary in 2026 are underway, with the U.S. Treasury contemplating the minting of a special one-dollar coin. This coin is to feature an image of President Donald Trump as part of the celebrations. U.S. Treasurer Brandon Beach confirmed the authenticity of draft images shared publicly that depict Trump in a 'fight' stance on one side of the coin. The other side showcases a profile of the President, capturing a moment after a near-assassination attempt in Pennsylvania in 2024. The announcement follows the provisions set forth by the Circulating Collectible Coin Redesign Act of 2020, which was signed into law by Trump in January 2021. This act allows the Treasury Department to mint commemorative coins to celebrate the U.S. semiquincentennial for one year starting January 2026. The draft designs highlight the enduring spirit of American democracy, even amidst challenges faced during Trump's presidency. While the proposal has drawn interest, it also faces potential legal hurdles due to existing laws that prohibit living individuals from appearing on currency. The Thayer Amendment, passed in 1866, restricts living persons from appearing on government securities, and the Bureau of Engraving and Printing aligns with statutes stating that currency can only bear the portrait of deceased individuals. Despite these restrictions, exceptions have been made in the past, such as in 1926 when President Calvin Coolidge's image appeared on a half-dollar coin to commemorate another significant anniversary. Forthcoming details from the Treasury are expected as officials navigate the complexities surrounding this unique commemorative coin. As efforts ramp up for the 250th anniversary, Americans can look forward to celebratory events and the possibility of a contentious addition to the nation’s currency, especially given the political implications of featuring a living former president.