The U.S. Treasury Department plans to place President Donald Trump’s signature on newly printed American paper currency, marking the first time a sitting president’s name will appear on U.S. banknotes.
The agency said Thursday that the change is part of preparations to commemorate the nation’s 250th anniversary of independence.
U.S. paper currency has historically carried the signatures of the Treasury secretary and the U.S. treasurer. Under the new plan, Trump’s signature will appear alongside that of Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent.
In a notable shift, the signature of the U.S. treasurer will be removed, ending a practice that dates back more than 160 years.
The first $100 bills featuring the updated signatures are expected to be printed in June, with other denominations to follow in the coming months.
Treasury officials said the move is intended to honor the country’s 250th anniversary, which will be marked on July 4.
Bessent said placing Trump’s name on U.S. currency recognizes both the nation’s history and its economic strength.
U.S. Treasurer Brandon Beach also supported the decision, calling it an appropriate way to mark the milestone.
The Bureau of Engraving and Printing, which produces all U.S. paper currency, will implement the change. Officials said the overall design of the bills will remain the same, aside from the updated signatures.
Current notes bearing the signatures of previous Treasury officials will continue to be printed until the transition is complete.
By law, certain features of U.S. currency must remain unchanged, including inscriptions and the use of portraits of historical figures who are no longer living.
The decision follows a series of efforts to incorporate Trump’s name into national projects and commemorative items.
Earlier this month, a federal arts panel approved the design of a gold commemorative coin featuring Trump’s image as part of the anniversary celebration. However, existing law prevents living individuals from appearing on circulating U.S. coins.
The inclusion of a sitting president’s signature on U.S. currency represents a significant departure from established practice and is likely to draw both support and criticism.
Supporters argue the move reflects the importance of the 250th anniversary and highlights the administration’s emphasis on national achievements. Critics, however, may view the change as politicizing a longstanding national symbol.
The removal of the treasurer’s signature is equally notable, as it ends a continuous tradition that dates back to the early issuance of federal paper money during the 19th century.
While the visual design of U.S. currency will largely remain intact, the symbolic impact of the change could be substantial, given the global recognition of the dollar.
As the rollout begins, attention is likely to focus on how the change is received domestically and internationally, particularly as the United States approaches a major historical milestone.
