The Treasury Department is evaluating the introduction of a $250 bill featuring President Trump. However, this initiative requires a change in federal law, as explained by an agency official to CBS News.
The Washington Post first reported on the bill’s consideration, which was prompted by legislation last year from Rep. Joe Wilson, a Republican from South Carolina.
Treasury Secretary’s Remarks
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent addressed the topic during a White House briefing. He stated, “For U.S. currency at present, no living person can be depicted, and it must say ‘In God We Trust’.” He noted that there is proposed legislation before the House and Senate to alter this requirement so that Donald J. Trump might appear on a $250 bill.
Bessent added, “We’ve made preparations should the legislation pass. But we will adhere to existing law.” During his remarks, he held up a Washington Post article about the proposed $250 bill featuring Trump.
Bureau of Engraving and Printing’s Role
A Treasury Department official informed CBS News that the Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP) is engaged in due diligence in response to the legislative proposal. The official emphasized that if the legislative mandate is enacted, the BEP will produce a commemorative $250 note recognizing the U.S.’s 250th anniversary.
Current Legal Framework
Federal law dictates that U.S. currency can only feature portraits of deceased individuals. Wilson’s bill proposes to amend the Federal Reserve Act to allow $250 bills to showcase Trump’s portrait. Introduced in February 2025, the “Donald J. Trump $250 Bill Act” was referred to the House Committee on Financial Services, but it has not progressed further since.
Other Currency Initiatives
Over the past year, President Trump has aimed to feature his name and image on currency. In March, the Treasury announced future notes would carry his signature. In October, they worked on a $1 coin with his image for the upcoming 250th U.S. independence anniversary.
Design and Planning
Asked about the bill’s design, the Treasury official directed CBS News to Rep. Wilson’s legislation. Wilson’s website displays an AI-generated concept artwork, showing Trump on the left side of a $250 note.
The Washington Post also published a mockup provided by White House officials. This image features Trump prominently, and resembles current banknotes. The Bureau of Engraving and Printing noted that new designs take years to develop, and designs are only publicized six to eight months before circulation to prevent counterfeiting.
The official mentioned, “Any ‘designs’ or ‘mockups’ circulating are not authentic.” The $250 bill would join a series of currency commemorating America’s 250th anniversary. In December 2025, the Treasury unveiled designs for assorted coins set to mint in 2026.
The new coin designs, according to the U.S. Mint, “illustrate the story of America’s pursuit of a ‘more perfect union’ and honor America’s fundamental ideals of liberty.”