The U.S. Commission of Fine Arts has approved a proposal to issue a 24-karat gold coin bearing the image of Donald Trump, ahead of the 250th anniversary of American independence on July 4.
According to reports, the commemorative coin is planned as part of the celebrations marking the historic milestone. The design reportedly features Trump seated with his hands resting on a table.
However, the move has sparked legal and constitutional debate, as existing US laws generally prohibit the depiction of a living president on official currency.
Officials said the U.S. Department of the Treasury, headed by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, has discretionary powers to mint and issue certain commemorative coins. The proposal has been cleared under this provision, though its legality is being questioned in some quarters.
The final decision on the coin’s size and specifications is yet to be made, following which formal orders for minting are expected to be issued.
The development also comes in the backdrop of Trump having reconstituted the Fine Arts Commission after assuming office, appointing new members aligned with his administration.
