U.S. President Donald Trump released an image of a $100 bill bearing his signature to mark the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States. This is the first time a sitting president's signature has appeared on U.S. currency.
On the 4th (local time), President Trump posted an image of a $100 bill printed with his signature on his social media, Truth Social, without further explanation.
U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent also shared the image on his X (formerly Twitter), saying, "Under President Trump's leadership, America is moving toward unprecedented economic growth, dollar hegemony, and fiscal soundness."
He added, "There is no stronger way to honor the historic achievements of the United States and President Trump than a dollar bill bearing his signature," and said, "It is highly appropriate to issue such historic currency to coincide with the 250th anniversary of the founding."
In March, the U.S. Treasury released plans to print President Trump's signature on newly issued bills to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the founding.
However, the actual timing for the bills to enter circulation has not yet been disclosed. The Hill, a congressional news outlet, reported that it typically takes several weeks from the Bureau of Engraving and Printing's printing to distribution by the Federal Reserve (Fed) to financial institutions.
Generally, U.S. dollar bills carry the signatures of the treasury secretary and the treasurer. This is the first time the signature of a sitting president has been included.
Controversy continues, however. The Hill reported that while federal law prohibits placing content related to living persons on U.S. currency, the Treasury's position is that an exception can apply to special commemorations such as the 250th anniversary of the founding under the "2020 Circulating Collectible Coin Redesign Act," which President Trump signed during his first administration.
Public opinion is negative. In a poll conducted by the Economist and YouGov in April, 59% of respondents said they opposed putting President Trump's signature on currency, while 24% were in favor.
Since returning to power, President Trump has been pushing a series of commemorative initiatives using his name and image. He previously unveiled a limited-edition passport and an annual national park pass bearing his likeness, and a $1 commemorative coin with his face also won approval from a government advisory body.