The U.S. Treasury Department has unveiled a controversial plan that could change the look of American money: newly printed U.S. paper currency will carry the signature of President Donald Trump.
Trump Money
The announcement came just before Trump apparently made up a story about getting custom Sharpies for $5 each. He claimed during a Cabinet meeting on March 27 that he spoke with “the head of Sharpie” to make the pens black with designs, including his signature and the White House. Trump said the pens were better than $1,000 versions and joked about handing them to kids. Sharpie maker Newell Brands, however, disputed the story, saying no such conversation occurred, The Daily Beast reported.
If the news of Trump’s signature on U.S. currency is implemented as announced, the move would mark a historic break from tradition. For generations, U.S. bills have featured only the signatures of the Treasury secretary and the U.S. treasurer, Politico reported. A sitting president’s name has never appeared on paper currency in this way.
Treasury officials say the decision is tied to the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent will still have his signature included on the bills, but adding Trump’s name will be unprecedented.
The announcement has sparked backlash, particularly as it comes during a period of economic strain for many Americans. Rising grocery costs, high gas prices, and global instability. Critics argue that focusing on symbolic changes to currency at such a time sends the wrong message, Axios reports.
Trump has repeatedly placed his name or likeness on major institutions and initiatives. From renaming cultural landmarks to commemorative items, his imprint has expanded across public spaces and government-backed programs.
Adding fuel to the controversy is another effort involving the U.S. Mint. A federal arts panel recently approved a design for a 24-karat gold commemorative coin featuring Trump’s image as part of the same anniversary celebration.
More than $2 trillion in U.S. currency is currently in circulation, meaning any redesign will take time to fully roll out. Initial reports suggest that new $100 bills bearing Trump’s signature could begin printing as early as June, with other denominations to follow.
