U.S. Mint Sells Trump $1 Coin Amid Legal Debate

The U.S. Mint began selling a new one-dollar coin featuring President Donald Trump's likeness on Wednesday, marking the first time in nearly a century that a living president has appeared on American currency. The release, part of the nation's 250th anniversary commemorations, has sparked immediate debate over its legality and cost. The coins went on sale at noon EDT on September 2, 2026. They are available in rolls of 25 for $61 and bags of 100 for $154.50, prices that represent a significant markup over the coin's face value. The Mint stated the coins are legal tender and can be used for everyday purchases, though they are being sold directly to collectors and have not been placed into general circulation. The design features a portrait of Trump on the obverse, or front, with the inscriptions "LIBERTY," "IN GOD WE TRUST," and the dates "1776-2026." The reverse displays the Presidential Seal, with the number "250" on the eagle's shield. The coins have a gold-colored finish but are composed primarily of copper, with zinc, manganese, and nickel. They were struck at the Philadelphia Mint.