Treasury to Put Trump's Signature on New US Currency

Move marks first time a sitting president's signature will appear on paper money

Mar. 27, 2026 at 9:10am

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The U.S. Treasury Department announced plans to include former President Donald Trump's signature on all new U.S. paper currency, a first for a sitting president. The decision has drawn criticism from Democrats who say it is an inappropriate politicization of the nation's currency.

Why it matters

This move represents an unprecedented step in putting a sitting president's name and likeness on U.S. currency, which has traditionally only featured the signatures of the Treasury Secretary and Treasurer. It reflects Trump's efforts to cement his legacy and brand on American institutions.

The details

The Treasury says the plan is intended to honor the nation's 250th birthday, and that Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent's signature would also appear. However, the announcement has faced backlash, with some Democrats criticizing it as a political stunt that comes as Americans are dealing with rising costs for gas, groceries and other goods.

  • The Treasury Department announced the plans on March 27, 2026.

The players

Donald Trump

Former President of the United States who the Treasury plans to feature on new U.S. currency.

Scott Bessent

Current Treasury Secretary who will also have his signature on the new currency.

Shontel Brown

Democratic Congresswoman who criticized the Treasury's plan as "gross and un-American."

Michael Bordo

Director of the Center for Monetary and Financial History at Rutgers University, who said the move will likely face political pushback but may not violate any laws.

Brandon Beach

U.S. Treasurer who said putting Trump's signature on currency is "appropriate and well deserved."

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What they’re saying

“Gross and un-American. But at least it will remind us who to thank when we pay more for gas, goods, and groceries.”

— Shontel Brown, U.S. Representative

“There is no more powerful way to recognize the historic achievements of our great country than with U.S. dollar bills bearing President Trump's name.”

— Scott Bessent, U.S. Treasury Secretary

“It also means that many years from now those bills will be collectors' items.”

— Michael Bordo, Director, Center for Monetary and Financial History at Rutgers

What’s next

The U.S. Bureau of Engraving and Printing will begin printing the new currency featuring Trump's signature, though it remains to be seen if the plan will face legal challenges.

The takeaway

This unprecedented move to put a sitting president's signature on U.S. currency is seen by some as an inappropriate politicization, while supporters view it as a fitting tribute. The decision reflects Trump's efforts to cement his legacy, but also raises questions about the appropriate role of the presidency in the design of the nation's money.