US President Donald Trump is set to appear on a gold coin commemorating America’s 250th anniversary, sparking questions over its legality.
The proposed design shows President Trump leaning on the Resolute Desk with clenched fists, making him only the second sitting president featured on a coin. The first was Calvin Coolidge in 1926, alongside George Washington, on a coin marking 150 years of American independence.
The US Commission on Fine Arts approved the design on 19th of this month, with minting set to follow once final dimensions are confirmed. While federal law bars living presidents from appearing on circulating currency, officials say this will be a commemorative coin, allowing the Treasury Secretary to approve its production.
The move has drawn criticism from Democrats, who call it inappropriate and inconsistent with national values, viewing it as part of President Trump’s effort to leave his mark on Washington’s landmarks. Previous proposals include renaming the Kennedy Centre and adding President Trump’s name to the US Institute of Peace building, along with changes to White House grounds.
