A U.S federal arts commission, composed of members appointed by President Donald Trump, unanimously approved the design for a 24-carat commemorative gold coin featuring his image on Thursday. The coin is part of a series intended to celebrate America’s 250th birthday, known as the Semiquincentennial. The design, based on a portrait currently displayed in the National Portrait Gallery, depicts a stern-looking Trump at a desk. During the approval process, commission members discussed making the coin as large as three inches in diameter, with White House aides noting the president’s preference for a larger format.
A federal panel approved a commemorative gold coin design featuring President Trump, endorsing the rare step of putting a living, sitting president on American money. https://t.co/DQDfzq2GGu
— The Wall Street Journal (@WSJ) March 19, 2026
The proposal has sparked significant debate regarding the interpretation of U.S. coinage laws. While a $1 circulation coin featuring a sitting president is generally prohibited until three years after their death, proponents argue that this gold coin serves as a non-circulating collector’s item, creating a potential legal loophole. Critics, including several Democratic lawmakers, have characterized the move as an overreach, comparing it to the practices of monarchs rather than democratic leaders. Conversely, the U.S. Treasurer defended the choice, calling the president’s profile emblematic of the country’s enduring spirit as it reaches this 250-year milestone.
The gold coin is the latest in a series of initiatives to feature the president’s name or likeness on government programs and infrastructure since his second term began in 2025. Other recent proposals include naming a new class of Navy warships and various federal savings programs after the president. While a similar precedent exists from 1926, when Calvin Coolidge appeared on a coin for the 150th anniversary, experts note that Coolidge’s image was overlaid with George Washington’s, whereas the new 2026 design features President Trump alone.
You May Like To Read: Faith, Unity, and Unwavering Resolve: Pakistan Celebrates 86th Pakistan Day
Check out our latest video:
