Former President Donald Trump's likeness, name, and signature are appearing on a variety of U.S. commemoratives and infrastructure projects, coinciding with America's 250th birthday and initiatives aimed at building his legacy.
Special Edition Passport and Gold Coin
On June 26, Trump unveiled a special edition passport for America's 250th anniversary. The design includes a portrait of the former president, the Resolute Desk, and text from the Declaration of Independence, alongside Trump's signature. These passports will be available exclusively at the Washington Passport Agency starting July 6, with a limited release of 25,000 to 30,000 copies. This marks the first time a living U.S. president has been featured on a U.S. passport.
Separately, in March, the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts approved a design featuring Trump on a 24-karat gold coin. Although federal law generally prohibits living presidents from appearing on U.S. currency, the Treasury Secretary has the authority to issue proof gold coins. A federal lawsuit challenging this was denied by a U.S. District Judge who found the plaintiff lacked legal standing. The U.S. Mint plans to produce only 47 coins, each expected to be auctioned for approximately $90,000.
Currency and Social Security Cards
Trump recently shared an image of a $100 bill featuring his signature, following a Treasury Department announcement that a sitting president's signature can now be included on U.S. paper currency. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated this is appropriate given Trump's economic achievements and to honor the nation's 250th birthday. Printing of the new bills began in June and is expected to be rolled out into general circulation through the summer.
Additionally, babies born between July 2 and the end of the year will receive a Social Security card branded with "Freedom 250," a Trump-backed public-private organization, though not featuring his face or signature directly.
Airport and Federal Building Renaming
In February, the Florida Legislature approved renaming Palm Beach International Airport to President Donald J. Trump International Airport. Highway signage has already been updated. The Federal Aviation Administration is set to officially update the name on July 9, with the IATA code changing from PBI to DJT on August 18.
In Washington D.C., three-story banners depicting Trump's face and campaign slogans have been displayed on federal buildings, including the Department of Justice, Labor, Interior, and Agriculture. For instance, a banner on the Department of the Interior features Trump alongside George Washington, with both bearing the slogan "America First."
Investment Programs and Healthcare Initiatives
Trump announced in February a new investment visa program, the "Trump Gold Card," for immigrants seeking expedited permanent U.S. residency. Applicants must pay a $15,000 processing fee and donate $1 million to the government, or corporate sponsors can pay $2 million for an employee. This program was established after an Executive Order in September, and as of late April, only one gold card visa had been approved.
In February, Trump also launched TrumpRX, a prescription drug website intended to lower costs for certain medications. The site offers coupons for over 800 discounted drugs.
Public Reaction
The branding initiatives have drawn mixed reactions from the public. An April poll by Economic/YouGov indicated that 59% of Americans somewhat or strongly disapprove of Trump's signature on money, while 24% somewhat or strongly approve. The poll surveyed 1,748 respondents.