The US Treasury Department is preparing for the possible production of a new $250 banknote featuring President Donald Trump, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent confirmed, though lawmakers must first approve legislation allowing a living person to appear on US currency.
Current federal law prohibits living individuals from being depicted on US banknotes, but legislation introduced by Trump allies in Congress would create an exception for current and former presidents.
Treasury officials said planning and design work are being conducted in anticipation of a potential legal change tied to celebrations marking the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
Speaking at the White House, Bessent said proposed legislation is before both the House and Senate and would permit Trump’s image to appear on a commemorative $250 note.
He said the Treasury Department was preparing for the possibility that Congress approves the measure but emphasized that the department would follow existing law.
According to Treasury officials, the proposed denomination is intended to symbolize the nation’s 250th anniversary.
The initiative was first reported by The Washington Post, which said design requests had been made through the Bureau of Engraving and Printing.
A Treasury spokesperson said the agency is conducting planning and due diligence should the legislation become law.
The proposal would also face questions over a separate federal law that specifies authorized currency denominations and does not currently include a $250 note.
Supporters of the proposal argue that a commemorative note featuring the sitting president would be an appropriate tribute during the anniversary celebrations.
Bessent said he did not believe there was “anything untoward” about such a design.
Critics, however, have questioned the initiative and its timing.
Senator Mark Warner said the administration's focus should remain on economic challenges facing American families rather than symbolic projects.
The proposal comes amid a broader effort by Trump and his allies to place his name, image, and likeness on national institutions and symbols.
Plans already announced include adding Trump’s signature to commemorative currency linked to the anniversary, while other initiatives have expanded his presence across federal buildings, cultural institutions, and commemorative items.
It remains unclear whether any new banknote could be produced in time for anniversary events scheduled around July 4.