WASHINGTON: The Trump administration is exploring early preparations for a proposed $250 US banknote that could feature President Donald Trump’s portrait, if Congress approves the relevant legislation currently under consideration.
The proposal is tied to upcoming celebrations marking the 250th anniversary of US independence. However, it would require an exemption from existing federal law, which prohibits the depiction of living individuals on US currency. Trump allies have already introduced legislation in Congress seeking to create that exception.
The US Treasury Department said it is currently carrying out “appropriate planning and due diligence” in relation to the proposal, while making it clear that no final decision has been taken and any progress depends entirely on congressional approval.
If passed, the legislation would authorise a commemorative $250 note as part of nationwide semiquincentennial celebrations, with supporters describing it as a symbolic way to mark 250 years of American independence.
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The bill was introduced by Republican Congressman Joe Wilson and must clear both the House of Representatives and the Senate before it can become law.
According to reports, the Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP), which operates under the US Treasury and is responsible for designing and producing currency, has been asked to begin preliminary assessments for the potential note. However, officials have not released any design concepts at this stage.
Treasury officials stressed that no production work can begin unless the legislation is formally approved. If it becomes law, the BEP would move forward with developing a commemorative design reflecting the national milestone.
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the matter is fully in the hands of Congress and confirmed that the Treasury will follow all legal requirements. He added that commemorative currency linked to major national anniversaries is not unusual, provided it is properly authorised.
The proposal has also sparked criticism from some lawmakers, who argue it reflects misplaced priorities at a time when many Americans are struggling with rising living costs. Democratic Senator Mark Warner said the focus should remain on easing economic pressures rather than symbolic currency projects.
Under current US law, only specific denominations are authorised for circulation, with the $100 bill featuring Benjamin Franklin remaining the highest commonly used note.
Larger denominations such as $500, $1,000 and $10,000 were discontinued in 1969, though they are still considered legal tender.
Currency design in the United States is a lengthy and tightly controlled process involving multiple agencies, including the Federal Reserve and the Secret Service, with final designs kept confidential to prevent counterfeiting.
It remains unclear whether the proposed $250 note could be ready in time for the July 4, 2026 independence celebrations, as both legislative approval and production timelines are still uncertain.
