Trump coins
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The gist
U.S. Mint began selling $1 Trump coins at noon ET Wednesday, priced $1.55-$2.44 each.
First living president on U.S. currency since 1866, sparking legal and tradition debates.
Background
The U.S. Mint released $1 coins featuring President Donald Trump to commemorate the nation's 250th anniversary. The coins are gold-colored but made of copper, zinc, manganese, and nickel, with no precious metal. They are legal tender and can be used as money, though sold at a premium as collectibles. This marks the first time a living person has appeared on U.S. currency since 1866, following a change in law that allowed the design.
How it unfolded
- Mar 2026The coin was greenlighted after controversy over a federal law that previously prohibited living people on U.S. currency.
- Jul 2026The coins were first announced.
- Sep 2, 2026The U.S. Mint began selling the coins at noon ET, with prices ranging from $1.55 to $2.44 per coin. The coins entered circulation.
Who’s saying what
- Official
- The U.S. Mint says the coins celebrate the nation's 250th anniversary and are legal tender.
- Analysts
- Some legal experts question whether a sitting president can appear on U.S. money, citing restrictions on living portraits.
- Caution
- Critics note the coin's premium price and potential legal issues, calling it 'questionably legal'.
Still unverified
Some reports suggest the coin's legality is disputed due to a federal law restricting living people on currency, but the Treasury argues the Circulating Collectible Coin Redesign Act of 2020 allows it.