Washington, D.C. — The administration of U.S. President Donald Trump is reportedly exploring the creation of a new $250 currency note featuring Trump’s portrait, according to multiple U.S. media reports. The proposal, tied to celebrations marking the 250th anniversary of American independence, would require congressional approval because current federal law prohibits living individuals from appearing on U.S. currency.
A report by Washington Post.com said senior Treasury Department officials, including U.S. Treasurer Brandon Beach and adviser Mike Brown, had urged the Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP) to begin developing prototype designs for the proposed banknote. Mock-up versions reportedly created in August and September last year feature Trump’s image at the center of the bill, along with the signatures of Trump and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent.
According to the reports, British artist Iain Alexander designed one of the prototypes after discussions with Trump. The proposed note also includes branding linked to the upcoming “America 250” celebrations commemorating the nation’s founding.
Legal and Political Hurdles
Under the 1866 Thayer Amendment, living persons are barred from appearing on official U.S. currency. Experts say Congress would need to amend existing law before any such note could enter circulation. Additionally, U.S. law currently does not authorize a $250 denomination.
Republican Congressman Joe Wilson previously introduced legislation seeking authorization for a commemorative $250 note bearing Trump’s image. However, the proposal has yet to advance in Congress.
Treasury Secretary Bessent confirmed that the Treasury Department had prepared designs in anticipation of possible legislative approval but insisted the administration would comply with existing law unless Congress changes it.
Concerns Inside Treasury Department
The Washington Post reported that former BEP Director Patricia Solimene raised legal and procedural objections to the project, warning that designing and introducing a new currency note could take several years and require coordination with the Federal Reserve, Secret Service, and financial institutions. She was later reassigned from her position, though the Treasury Department has not publicly linked the move to the controversy.
Currency experts also noted that introducing a new denomination would involve extensive anti-counterfeiting testing and ATM compatibility adjustments. Former BEP officials told U.S. media that modern currency redesigns often take six to ten years to complete.
Wider Debate
The proposal has sparked political debate in the United States, with critics accusing the administration of attempting to personalize national institutions. Supporters argue the note would serve as a commemorative issue marking the country’s 250th anniversary.
While preparations appear to be underway at the Treasury Department, analysts say the proposal faces significant legal, political, and procedural obstacles before any Trump-themed $250 note could become reality.
