Washington: The administration of US President Donald Trump is preparing contingency plans for a proposed new $250 bill that could feature Trump’s portrait, if Congress approves legislation allowing the move.
Under existing US federal law, living individuals cannot appear on American currency. However, Republican lawmakers allied with Trump have introduced legislation seeking to create an exception as part of celebrations marking the United States’ 250th anniversary in 2026.
A spokesperson for the US Treasury Department confirmed that officials are conducting appropriate planning and due diligence in response to the proposal. The measure was introduced by Republican Congressman Joe Wilson of South Carolina and would require approval from both the House of Representatives and the Senate before becoming law.
According to reports, the Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP), the Treasury agency responsible for producing US currency, has already been asked to begin preliminary design preparations for a commemorative $250 note.
The Treasury spokesperson remarked that, “Should this legislative mandate be signed into law, the BEP is moving proactively to produce a $250 commemorative note which will appropriately recognise the 250th Anniversary of our great nation.”
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent addressed the issue during a White House briefing, saying the decision ultimately rests with Congress. Scott Bessent added that the Treasury Department would comply with any law passed by lawmakers and stated there was nothing untoward about featuring the current president on a commemorative bill tied to the nation’s anniversary celebrations.
The proposal could also face legal complications because current federal law only authorises specific currency denominations, and a $250 bill is not among them. Democrats have sharply criticised the plan. Senator Mark Warner of Virginia argued that the administration’s focus on commemorative currency was disconnected from the economic struggles faced by ordinary Americans.
Warner stated that, “As Americans struggle with the rising cost of gas, groceries, housing, and health care, President Trump’s priorities for taxpayer dollars are completely detached from the challenges families face every day.”
The $100 bill, featuring Benjamin Franklin, remains the highest denomination currently in production. Larger notes such as $500, $1,000, and $10,000 bills were discontinued in 1969, though they remain legal tender and are mostly held by collectors.
Currency redesigns in the United States typically take several years and involve agencies including the Federal Reserve and the US Secret Service. Officials generally keep note designs confidential until close to public release to reduce counterfeiting risks. It remains unclear whether a potential $250 note could be produced in time for the July 4, 2026, semiquincentennial celebrations.
The proposal is the latest in a series of symbolic moves linked to Trump’s return to office. His name has reportedly been added to the Kennedy Centre, his portrait is expected to appear on US passports, and the presidential aircraft Air Force One is being redesigned using colours preferred by the president.
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