The United States Mint has unveiled a new $1 commemorative coin featuring the likeness of President Donald Trump as part of celebrations marking the 250th anniversary of the United States.
The Mint released 250,000 coins on Wednesday, with Trump’s portrait appearing on the obverse alongside the inscriptions “Liberty,” “In God We Trust” and “1776 ~ 2026.”
The portrait was designed by United States Mint Chief Engraver Joseph Menna and was based on an official White House photograph taken by Daniel Torok.
The launch follows the Mint’s decision in March to approve the commemorative coin, despite longstanding federal restrictions concerning the depiction of living individuals on U.S. currency.
The administration has argued that the coin is permitted under provisions of the Circulating Collectible Coin Redesign Act of 2020, which was signed into law by Trump during his first term and included provisions for coins commemorating the nation’s semiquincentennial.
The Trump administration also stated that congressional approval was not required for the coin. In a legal filing, the administration cited historical examples of coins depicting sitting presidents, including a commemorative coin issued during the 150th anniversary of the United States that featured former President Calvin Coolidge.
The reverse of the new coin features the Presidential Seal, depicting an eagle holding an olive branch and a bundle of arrows, with a shield on its breast and a banner.
The number “250” is also prominently displayed to mark the nation’s 250th anniversary.
Despite its gold-like appearance, the coin is made from nonprecious metal and is being produced at the Philadelphia Mint.
The commemorative coins became available on September 2 in rolls containing 25 coins and bags containing 100 coins.
The Mint clarified that the coins were not produced for general circulation, although they remain legal tender.
The Trump coin is part of a broader lineup of commemorative issues being offered by the U.S. Mint in 2026. Other releases include Revolutionary War Quarters, American Eagle Gold Coins and Enduring Liberty Half Dollars, with some commemorative pieces priced at more than $10,000.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the Trump coin celebrates “the strength of American values” and the promise of a nation committed to preserving freedom.
Bessent has also overseen Treasury Department efforts to introduce new U.S. currency bearing Trump’s signature.
The release of the coin comes amid broader efforts by the Trump administration to feature the president’s name and likeness on prominent government-related projects, a move that has generated criticism from some quarters.
