Chicago – May 28, 2026
The Trump administration is preparing to print a new $250 bill featuring President Donald Trump’s portrait, contingent on congressional approval to override federal law. The commemorative note would mark the United States’ 250th anniversary of independence in 2026.
Currently, federal law prohibits depicting living individuals on US currency. Trump would be the first living person on a banknote since 1866 if legislation passes. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent confirmed Thursday that the Bureau of Engraving and Printing has been tasked with creating prototype designs.
“Right now, there is proposed legislation in front of the House and Senate to change the requirement so that a living person, Donald J. Trump, could be on the $250 bill,” Bessent said. The bill, dubbed the “Donald J. Trump $250 Bill Act,” was introduced last year by GOP Rep. Joe Wilson of South Carolina but remains stalled.
The proposed note would include Trump’s and Bessent’s signatures. Democrats have vowed to block the measure in Congress, calling it an inappropriate glorification of the sitting president. Treasury officials insist they are simply preparing for potential legislation rather than yielding to political pressure.
