The U.S. Mint announced Wednesday that a new $1 coin celebrating the nation’s 250th birthday is now available for purchase. The coin’s “heads” side features President Donald Trump’s likeness, while the “tails” side displays the Great Seal of the United States. The design received approval this year from the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts, a body whose members were appointed by President Trump.
Design and symbolism
Engraved with the word “LIBERTY” arcing above the President’s portrait and the dates “1776 – 2026” below, the coin is meant to honor two centuries and a half of American heritage. The reverse shows the bald eagle clutching arrows and an olive branch, with the motto “E PLURIBUS UNUM” emblazoned on a banner in its beak.
Pricing and availability
A roll of 25 coins is priced at $61, while a bag of 100 costs $154.50. The Mint has indicated that some special‑issue coins will be marked “July 4th” because they were struck on Independence Day. For now, each household may place up to two orders, and the Mint’s website notes that additional inventory is being produced to meet demand.
Legal backdrop
Federal law generally prohibits the depiction of a living president on U.S. currency. However, the Treasury Secretary does have authority to authorize special‑issue coins under certain circumstances, and the Mint has invoked that authority for this release. Critics have pointed to the legal restriction, but the administration maintains that the coin complies with existing statutes.
President’s reaction
President Trump previously described the idea of his portrait on a coin as “very unusual” but said he was “honored by it.” The coin joins a series of branding efforts undertaken during his second term, including proposals to rename cultural institutions after him—a pattern that has generated both support and litigation.
What this means for collectors
Collectors nationwide can order the coin online, and the Mint has hinted that a few randomly placed special‑issue pieces may be hidden among the rolls and bags. While the coin is legal tender, its primary appeal is likely as a commemorative item for patriots who wish to celebrate the nation’s milestone and the President’s role in it.
Original reporting: Dallas TX News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
