The administration of Donald Trump will place the president’s signature on US banknotes, the Treasury Department says, in what would be the first time a sitting president’s name appears on the nation’s currency. Get today's headlines by email Treasury officials say the change will coincide with celebrations marking the 250th anniversary of the United States. Traditionally, American banknotes carry the signatures of the treasury secretary and the US treasurer rather than the president. Treasury Plans Unprecedented Currency ChangeUnder the plan, new $100 bills bearing the signatures of Donald Trump and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent are due to begin printing in June. Additional denominations are expected to follow. Officials describe the move as a symbolic tribute tied to the anniversary of American independence. Break From Longstanding PracticeSince 1861, US currency has included the signature of the US treasurer along with that of the treasury secretary. The new design would end that long-standing arrangement by replacing the treasurer’s signature with that of the president. Bills currently in production still carry the signatures of former Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, who served under former President Joe Biden, and then–US Treasurer Lynn Malerba. Treasury Secretary Bessent said the decision aims to highlight both the country’s history and the role of the current administration. “There is no more powerful way to recognize the historic achievements of our great country and President Donald J Trump than US dollar bills bearing his name,” Bessent said. Anniversary Celebrations and SymbolismThe initiative forms part of broader government efforts linked to the nation’s upcoming anniversary. In 1776, the 13 original colonies declared independence from Britain, an event commemorated each year on Independence Day. Current US Treasurer Brandon Beach said the redesigned currency would continue to represent the country’s economic strength. “Our currency will continue to stand as a symbol of prosperity, strength and the unshakable spirit of the American people,” he said. The decision also follows other initiatives that feature Trump’s name as part of anniversary-related commemorations. Political ResponseThe announcement drew criticism from some political opponents. Gavin Newsom, a Democrat and long-time critic of the president, attacked the move while referencing rising living costs in the United States. “Now Americans will know exactly who to blame as they're paying more for groceries, gas, rent and health care,” Newsom wrote on social media. Earlier this month, a federal arts commission also approved a commemorative 24-karat gold coin carrying Trump’s likeness, another item planned to mark the country’s 250th anniversary. During Trump’s first presidency, his name also appeared on federal stimulus cheques issued to millions of Americans during the COVID-19 pandemic, an unusual step at the time for government payments. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 27 March 2026
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