Trump's signature to appear on US dollars in first for sitting president

The Treasury Department has announced that Donald Trump will become the first sitting US president to have his signature on US banknotes. His signature will appear alongside Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent’s, a move described as marking the nation’s 250th anniversary.

Bessent said that featuring Trump’s name on dollar bills is a “powerful way” to honor the historic achievements of both the president and the country. Traditionally, US currency has only carried the signatures of treasury officials.

This step continues the administration’s trend of linking Trump’s name with government initiatives and public projects. The first $100 bills featuring Trump and Bessent’s signatures are scheduled for printing in June, with other denominations to follow. Current banknotes still carry the signatures of former Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen and Treasurer Lynn Malerba.

Since 1861, it has been customary for the US treasurer’s signature to appear on banknotes—a practice that will change under this plan. Bessent emphasized that printing currency with Trump’s name is a meaningful tribute to the country’s accomplishments. US Treasurer Brandon Beach affirmed that the nation’s money will remain a symbol of American strength, prosperity, and resilience.

This year marks 250 years since the original 13 colonies declared independence from Britain. In response, California Governor Gavin Newsom criticized the move, tying it to rising living costs.

Earlier, a federal arts commission approved a commemorative 24-karat gold coin featuring Trump, also to mark the 250th anniversary. Trump’s name previously appeared on stimulus checks during the COVID-19 pandemic in his first term.