Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent displayed a mockup of a proposed $250 note bearing President Donald Trump during a White House briefing, saying the department has prepared designs in case Congress authorizes a special commemorative bill tied to the nation’s 250th anniversary.
Under current law, living presidents are not permitted to appear on U.S. currency. Bessent said the Treasury is ready to move if lawmakers change that rule, but emphasized the department will follow whatever Congress and the law require. He described the agency’s work as preparation in advance of any legislative decision.
Last year, Rep. Joe Wilson (R-S.C.) introduced legislation that would direct the Treasury to print $250 notes featuring Trump, though that bill has not been advanced by Congress. The Washington Post reported that two Trump administration political appointees pushed for drafts of the new note, including versions with the president’s likeness; Bessent held up a copy of that story while addressing reporters.
If Congress amends the statute, a Trump $250 note would be the first U.S. currency to depict a living person since 1866.
The proposed note is one element of several efforts under the Trump administration to mark the country’s semiquincentennial and place the president’s imprint on federal symbols. Earlier this year, the Treasury announced that Trump’s signature would appear on newly printed banknotes, a change from the traditional signatures of the treasury secretary and the treasurer.
Other commemorative ideas reported or discussed include a passport design, a coin, and a National Parks pass featuring the president’s image. In Washington, banners and building dedications have also reflected the administration’s preference for featuring the president’s name and likeness on government properties and initiatives.
Bessent framed the currency mockup as part of routine advance planning pending action by Capitol Hill, leaving the ultimate decision to lawmakers.