News
Collectibles · Currency · Regulation · Treasury
The U.S. Treasury Department announced plans to include President Donald Trump's signature on all new U.S. paper currency, marking a historic first for a sitting president, alongside Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent's signature, to commemorate America's 250th birthday.
This decision deviates from the traditional practice of only featuring the Treasury Secretary and Treasurer's signatures. It aligns with President Trump's broader efforts to brand national institutions, including the renaming of the U.S. Institute of Peace and the Kennedy Center.
The Treasury also approved a 24-karat gold commemorative coin bearing Trump's image for the 250th anniversary, despite federal law prohibiting living presidents on currency. Democrats, including Rep.
Shontel Brown, criticized the timing, citing rising costs and the ongoing war in Iran, which began February 28, as more pressing concerns. Rutgers' Michael Bordo anticipates political pushback but states the Treasury Secretary possesses the authority for this change, noting these bills will become collectors' items.
Over $2 trillion in Federal Reserve notes are currently in circulation.
