Washington, United States. A federal arts panel with members appointed by President Donald Trump unanimously approved a commemorative gold coin featuring his image. The decision has drawn criticism from Democrats and members of another federal arts committee.
Coin design and production process
During a presentation by a U.S. Mint official to the Commission of Fine Arts, the discussion focused on the diameter of the 24-carat coin, which could be up to three inches. Chamberlain Harris, a 26-year-old White House aide appointed to the commission by Trump this year, said the president would prefer the largest possible coin, telling the panel, “The larger the better,” shortly before the coin was approved.
The U.S. Mint will now produce final dimensions for the coin. Trump has already approved the design, and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent is expected to order the coin to be minted. The White House referred questions to the Treasury Department, and the U.S. Mint did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Criticism and official response
Critics said minting a coin with a sitting president’s image went against American values, particularly as the country celebrates its 250th birthday this year and the end of British monarchical rule.
U.S. Treasurer Brandon Beach said in a statement to Reuters, “As we approach our 250th birthday, we are thrilled to prepare coins that represent the enduring spirit of our country and democracy, and there is no profile more emblematic for the front of such coins than that of our serving President, Donald J. Trump.”
Image and inspiration
The coin would depict a stern-looking Trump leaning over a desk and staring forward, based on a photograph displayed in the National Portrait Gallery in Washington.
What do you think about minting a commemorative coin featuring the image of a sitting president?
