US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has confirmed that the department has begun preparatory work on a proposed USD 250 currency note that could feature President Donald Trump, pending approval from the US Congress.
Bessent stated that while the final decision rests with lawmakers, the Treasury Department has already developed a preliminary design in anticipation of stalled legislation that seeks to authorize the new denomination.
According to the proposal introduced in Congress, the bill would instruct the Bureau of Engraving and Printing to create a commemorative USD 250 note as part of celebrations marking the 250th anniversary of US independence. The legislation would also allow exceptions to existing rules that prohibit depictions of living individuals on US currency.
A Treasury spokesperson said the department has undertaken “appropriate planning and due diligence” to prepare for a possible mandate but emphasized that no final decision has been made.
The development follows reports that officials within the Treasury have been advancing design-related planning for the note, which reportedly includes Trump’s portrait and commemorative elements linked to the national anniversary.
The proposal has sparked political debate, as current US law generally bars living persons from appearing on currency. However, supporters of the bill argue that special commemorative exceptions have precedent in US history.
Bessent stressed that the process remains entirely dependent on Congress, stating that any issuance would require legislative approval before moving forward. He reiterated that the Treasury will comply fully with existing law unless changes are formally enacted.
