US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent confirmed on Thursday that the government is preparing to issue a new $250 banknote bearing the portrait of President Donald Trump, marking the first time in over a century that a living person would appear on American currency.
Speaking at the White House, Bessent stated that designs are ready, pending Congressional approval of a bill that would create an exception for current and former presidents. Current US law prohibits printing the image of living individuals on paper money.
“There is a bill before the House and Senate to amend regulations, allowing a living person—Donald J. Trump—to appear on the $250 note,” Bessent said.
According to the Washington Post, Treasurer Brandon Beach, appointed by Trump, has urged the Bureau of Engraving and Printing to accelerate production of the new bill to coincide with the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
“I don't think there's anything wrong with putting the US president on a 250th anniversary note,” Bessent told reporters. A design sample obtained by the Washington Post includes the inscription “America 250 anniversary,” commemorating the nation's declaration of independence on July 4, 1776.
Featuring Trump on currency is the latest in a series of actions expanding the president's personal brand within official capacities since his return to the White House in 2025. Trump's portrait has been displayed at the Department of Justice and other federal buildings.
Earlier, Trump appointees to the Kennedy Center board added his name to the national performing arts institution—originally designated by Congress as a memorial to assassinated President John F. Kennedy. Trump's signature is also set to appear on US currency as part of the 250th anniversary plan, marking the first time a sitting president receives this honor.
In March, the US Commission of Fine Arts, led by Trump allies, approved minting a commemorative gold coin bearing the Republican president's likeness. The decision relied on a legal loophole for commemorative coins but drew criticism from opponents, who likened the move to the behavior of dictators and monarchs.
