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How did the Trump portrait $1 coin enter circulation?

The Trump portrait $1 coin was put into circulation and made available for sale by the U.S. Mint on Tuesday at 12:00 p.m. Eastern Time. The new coin was produced as part of a commemorative series prepared for the 250th anniversary of the United States.

The gold-colored coin features Donald Trump’s portrait on the front, along with the words “Liberty” and “In God We Trust.” The reverse side shows the presidential seal of the United States with “250” on the shield. The move stands out as the first U.S. coin in about 100 years to feature a living person.

Sale price and face value do not match

Although the coin is marked $1, the U.S. Mint is selling it at a higher price in collector packaging. The agency says it is not only a display item and emphasizes that the coin is also valid for everyday purchases.

  • 25-coin roll: $61
  • 100-coin bag: $154.50

What steps led to the decision?

Since Donald Trump returned to the White House last year, the administration has taken steps highlighting his name or image on various buildings and products. These include the Kennedy Center, the U.S. Institute of Peace, national park passes, limited-edition passports, and the $1 million “gold card” visa announced last year.

U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent first announced the coin on social media on July 15. The administration linked the move to celebrations marking the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, citing a 1926 coin that featured George Washington alongside then-President Calvin Coolidge as a precedent. Critics, however, note that the earlier example was a commemorative coin rather than one minted for circulation.

What are the legal debate and political reactions?

What legal loophole was used?

Under U.S. federal law, only deceased people may appear on U.S. currency and securities. Even so, the 2020 Circulating Collection Coin Redesign Act, signed during Trump’s first term, gave the Treasury Department authority to mint a $1 coin with designs marking the United States’ 250th anniversary.

The law bars the portrait of any living or deceased person from appearing on the reverse side of such coins. Because Trump’s image is used on the front, the new coin is believed to likely comply with the legal framework.

Congressional effort failed to become law

Late last year, Democratic senators Catherine Cortez Masto and Jeff Merkley introduced a bill to block Trump’s face from appearing on the coin. However, the effort did not become law. In May, Bessent also said preparations were under way for a new $250 bill featuring Trump’s portrait and that congressional approval was being sought.

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