The new $1 Trump coin doesn’t just buck norms. Experts say it also breaks laws
News
Treasury unveils commemorative coin featuring Trump’s face
In his second term, President Trump’s image has cropped up in many new places: U.S. passports, national park passes, government building banners and — soon — official coins.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent unveiled designs this week for a commemorative $1 gold-colored coin, which he said the U.S. Mint will start producing in honor of the country’s 250th birthday.
Details
One side features the bald eagle from the distinctive U.S. seal. The other shows a close-up of Trump — wearing a suit, tie and serious expression — encircled by the word “Liberty” and “1776-2026.”
“It’s very cute, they gave me a coin,” Trump told Fox News on Wednesday. “That’s very unusual, from what I understand.”
A coin with the sitting president’s face has only been minted once, exactly a century ago. And, experts say, it’s likely illegal.
Analysis
“The law prohibits, currently, on currency, the likeness of any person — not just the president — who is alive,” said Jeremy Paul, a professor and former dean at Northeastern University School of Law who specializes in constitutional law.
The Treasury Department argues coins do not apply, citing a law that Congress passed in 2020 authorizing the creation of a special-edition 250th coin.
Paul says the coin question could potentially reach the courts. Either way, he believes, the break with tradition should be cause for concern.
Stay informed with the latest news on Wararka.so — your trusted source for Somalia and world news.
