US Prepares $250 Bill with Possible Trump Portrait Amid Anniversary Celebrations

The US Treasury is preparing for a potential new $250 bill to commemorate the country's 250th anniversary, with plans that could include a portrait of President Donald Trump, according to a Treasury spokesperson. This move would require congressional approval to bypass a federal law prohibiting the image of a living person on US currency.

The legislation, introduced by Republican Representative Joe Wilson of South Carolina last year, aims to make an exception for this commemorative note. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated that while his department is preparing for the possibility, the decision ultimately lies with Congress and assured that the Treasury would follow the law.

The $250 bill's design, including whether it will feature Trump, has not been publicly released. The Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP) has requested designs, but these are typically kept secret until about six to eight months before the note's release to prevent counterfeiting and market confusion.

The largest bill currently in print is the $100 bill, featuring Benjamin Franklin. Larger denominations ($500, $1000, $10000) were last printed in 1969 and remain legal tender but are not in circulation.

Democratic Senator Warner of Virginia criticized the move, suggesting it detachment from the economic challenges faced by American families, such as rising costs of living. In contrast, supporters frame it as a symbolic celebration of the nation's anniversary.

The development of new currency typically involves multiple agencies and takes years. The introduction of a $250 bill would also break with existing laws specifying allowable denominations, which do not include $250.