US Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent has confirmed that preparations are underway to print a new $250 banknote featuring President Donald Trump’s face. The move would mark the first time a living person has appeared on US currency in over a century, should the bills be put into circulation.

US law currently prohibits any living person from appearing on US currency. However, legislation was introduced last year that seeks to create an exception, allowing current and former presidents to be featured on banknotes. This proposed change is central to the plan for the Trump-themed bill.

Speaking at the White House on Thursday, Bessent stated that a design has been prepared in anticipation of a potential legal amendment. "Right now, there is proposed legislation – front of the House, in front of the Senate – to change the first requirement so that a living person, Donald J Trump, could be on a $250 bill," Bessent told reporters. He added that he did not believe there was anything inappropriate about featuring the sitting president on a bill commemorating the nation's 250th anniversary.

The confirmation follows a report by The Washington Post, which indicated that Treasurer Brandon Beach, a Trump appointee, has been urging the Bureau of Engraving and Printing to accelerate the process for a new currency note. This note is intended to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.

A design mock-up reportedly includes the inscription "America 250 anniversary," referencing the US Independence Day on July 4, 1776. The Treasury Department has not yet provided an official comment on the matter.

This potential banknote is seen by some as another instance of President Trump expanding his personal brand within his official capacity. Since returning to the White House in 2025, banners bearing his portrait have been displayed on federal buildings, including the Department of Justice. Furthermore, his appointees to the Kennedy Center's governing board have led to the national performing arts facility, originally established as a memorial to President John F. Kennedy, being associated with Trump.

Additionally, Trump's signature is slated to appear on US currency as part of the 250th-anniversary plans. This would be a first for a sitting president, as US banknotes have traditionally featured the signatures of the Treasury Secretary and the Treasurer.

The US Commission of Fine Arts, under the leadership of Trump appointee Rodney Mims Cook Jr., had previously approved related designs in March. The ultimate decision on whether these banknotes will be printed and circulated rests with lawmakers, who must first pass the proposed legislation to amend the existing currency laws.