Trump-Appointed Panel Approves President's Gold Coin

This approval marks the latest effort by Trump and his allies to affix his name to various public assets since his second White House term began in January 2025. The U.S. Mint will now finalize dimensions for the coin, with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent expected to order its minting, depicting a stern-looking Trump based on a National Portrait Gallery photograph.

U.S. Treasurer Brandon Beach stated the coin represents the enduring spirit of the country. The decision drew criticism from Democrats, including Senator Jeff Merkley, who likened the practice to monarchs and dictators.

Donald Scarinci, from the Citizens Coinage Advisory Committee, noted a 1926 precedent with President Calvin Coolidge, but highlighted the Trump coin's larger size and singular focus on the president. While a proposed circulating $1 coin featuring Trump would breach existing law, the gold coin is considered a non-circulating collector's item, exploiting a potential legal loophole.

Both coins are expected to be minted despite objections.