US President Donald Trump made history in US currency by sharing an image of the new $100 bill bearing his signature. In the image, Trump's signature and that of Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent appear side by side in the lower left corner of the bill.
This design means that a sitting US president's signature will appear on a circulating banknote for the first time. The bill, which retains Benjamin Franklin's portrait, was printed specifically for the country's 250th independence anniversary and is expected to enter circulation soon.
Treasury Secretary Bessent said in a statement on the matter, "Under President Trump's leadership, we are moving toward unprecedented economic growth, the long-term dominance of the dollar, and financial stability." Bessent added, "It is extremely fitting that this historic banknote, coinciding with the 250th anniversary of the US, is printed with Trump's signature."
US Deputy Treasury Secretary Brandon Beach also supported the decision, saying, "President Trump's place in history as the architect of America's economic revival, dubbed the 'golden age,' is indisputable. His signature appearing on the currency is not only appropriate but also a well-deserved recognition."
Secretary Bessent had previously floated the idea of issuing a new $250 bill featuring Trump's portrait. However, a 159-year-old federal law prohibits living persons from appearing on banknotes, so implementing this proposal requires congressional approval.
In an interview with Fox News, Bessent said, "Everything depends on Congress. As the Treasury Department, we have made our preliminary preparations and are ready if the law is passed, but we will act in accordance with existing laws." The secretary also noted that a commemorative coin was minted for the 150th anniversary during President Calvin Coolidge's tenure, providing a historical precedent.
