Trump $250 bill eyed for 250th anniversary

2026-05-28

The US Treasury Department is moving ahead with plans to issue a new $250 bill featuring a photo and signature of US President Donald Trump, positioning it as a commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the United States.

Issuance plan acknowledged

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent acknowledged the plan at a press conference on the 28th, saying, 'I think there is nothing inappropriate about depicting a sitting president on a commemorative bill for the nation's 250th anniversary.'

Bill stalled in committee

In February 2025, US Representative Joe Wilson introduced a bill that would direct the US Treasury secretary to issue a $250 bill featuring Trump’s portrait. However, the bill remains referred to the US House Financial Services Committee, and deliberations have stalled.

In response to a Nikkei request for comment, the Treasury Department said, 'If the bill becomes law, the US Mint is actively working to issue a $250 bill that properly commemorates our nation's 250th anniversary.'

Decision to add signature rests with the secretary

The Treasury Department also said Bessent decided to add Trump’s signature to the bill. 'Adding the signature will allow us to honor the great historical achievements of our country and Trump,' it said.

However, a US law enacted in 1866 stipulates that portraits used on currency must be of deceased individuals.

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