Philadelphia is producing new gold coins featuring former President Trump.
The United States Mint is set to launch a new series of one-dollar coins featuring a gold-hued finish and the likeness of former President Donald Trump, as announced by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. Production of these coins will take place at the Mint’s Philadelphia facility, which is recognized as the nation’s first and oldest mint. Set to be available in the fall, these coins will not contain actual gold; rather, they will possess a gold-like appearance.
The design of the coins includes a direct gaze portrait of President Trump accompanied by the phrase “In God We Trust,” along with a dual date indicating “1776 ~ 2026.” This date holds significance as it correlates with the upcoming celebration of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The design aligns with the themes presented in the U.S. Mint’s Semiquincentennial program, which was inaugurated earlier this year.
On the reverse side of the coin, a variant of the Great Seal is depicted. This emblem features an eagle grasping an olive branch and arrows in its talons. Notably, the eagle’s shield incorporates the numeral “250,” highlighting the 250th anniversary of American independence.
Bessent, in a recent announcement on the social media platform X, emphasized that the coin symbolizes the strength of American values and the commitment of the nation to safeguarding freedom for all. However, the initiative has sparked controversy. Federal law stipulates that only the portrait of deceased individuals can be depicted on U.S. currency, leading critics to argue that minting a coin featuring a living president contravenes this regulation.
In response to these concerns, Bessent referenced a 2020 law that permits the Treasury to produce one-dollar coins showcasing designs emblematic of the U.S. semiquincentennial. Despite this, the same legislation reiterates that no head and shoulders portrait of any person, living or deceased, shall be featured on such coins.
To bolster his argument, Bessent drew upon historical examples, mentioning a coin made during the 150th anniversary that featured President Calvin Coolidge. This precedent, according to Bessent, suggests that it is permissible to include the images of living presidents on currency.
As this new coin series approaches its release, the intersection of legal regulations and commemorative celebrations will likely continue to be a focal point of discussion surrounding its production and distribution.
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