In an unprecedented announcement, Donald Trump is set to become the first sitting president in the United States to have his signature appear on the nation's banknotes, as confirmed by the US Department of the Treasury.
The Treasury noted that Trump's signature will be printed alongside that of Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. Officials described this decision as a historic milestone associated with the commemoration of America’s 250th anniversary.
Bessent stated, "There is no more powerful way to recognize the historic achievements of our great country and President Donald J Trump than US dollar bills bearing his name," highlighting the importance of this development. Traditionally, US banknotes have featured only the signatures of treasury officials.
This decision represents another effort from the Trump administration to link his name with national programs and symbols.
The Treasury indicated that the first $100 bills displaying both Trump's and Bessent's signatures are scheduled to be printed in June, with additional denominations anticipated to follow.
Currently circulating notes bear the signatures of former Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen and Treasurer Lynn Malerba, who were appointed under the administration of previous President Joe Biden.
Since 1861, it has been customary for the US Treasurer's signature to appear on banknotes, a practice that will now undergo a significant alteration with the introduction of a sitting president's signature.
Emphasizing the symbolic nature of the change, US Treasurer Brandon Beach remarked that the currency would continue to symbolize prosperity, strength, and the unwavering spirit of the American populace.
This announcement coincides with the 250-year celebration of the United States' declaration of independence by the original 13 colonies from British rule.
The initiative has sparked political reactions, notably from California's Governor Gavin Newsom, a Democrat, who criticized Trump’s economic legacy. Newsom expressed through social media that, “Now Americans will know exactly who to blame as they’re paying more for groceries, gas, rent, and health care.”
Earlier, a federal arts commission had approved a 24-karat gold coin featuring Trump’s image, also commemorating the anniversary.
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