The Treasury Department is considering the introduction of a $250 bill depicting President Donald Trump. However, any such bill would necessitate a change in federal law, an official from the department informed CBS News.
The initiative, initially reported by the Washington Post, is a response to legislation introduced by Representative Joe Wilson from South Carolina. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent addressed the matter during a White House press briefing, highlighting existing currency regulations that currently only allow deceased individuals to be featured on U.S. currency and require the phrase ‘In God We Trust’ to appear as well.
“Presently, U.S. currency cannot feature a living person,” said Bessent. “Legislation is under consideration by both the House and Senate to amend this requirement, allowing Donald J. Trump to be displayed on the $250 bill.” Bessent noted that preparations are underway should the legislation pass. However, he emphasized adherence to existing law.
An official from the Treasury Department communicated with CBS News, stating that the Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP) is conducting necessary planning in response to the proposed legislation. Should the legislation be enacted, the BEP is set to produce a $250 commemorative note celebrating the 250th anniversary of the U.S.
Currently, federal law mandates that only deceased individuals can be depicted on U.S. currency. Wilson’s proposal seeks to amend this by requiring the Treasury to issue $250 bills featuring Trump’s portrait. The “Donald J. Trump $250 Bill Act,” introduced in February 2025, was referred to the House Committee on Financial Services but has seen no action since.
Throughout the last year, there have been efforts to incorporate Trump’s likeness on various currency forms. In March, the Treasury announced that Trump’s signature would appear on future currency, and plans for a $1 coin featuring his image have been discussed.
When inquired about the bill’s design, Treasury referred CBS News to Wilson’s legislation. A press release from Wilson’s office includes an AI-generated mockup with Trump’s portrait on a $250 note. Another version appeared in a Washington Post article, featuring a mockup provided to the Bureau of Engraving and Printing.
The Bureau of Engraving and Printing has noted that currency designs can take years to finalize, usually being made public six to eight months prior to circulation to prevent counterfeiting. As per the Treasury official, any circulating ‘designs’ or ‘mockups’ are not authentic.
The $250 bill is part of a series of new currency designs commemorating the nation’s 250th anniversary. In December 2025, the Treasury revealed new designs for coins, reflecting America’s journey towards a “more perfect union” and celebrating its ideals of liberty.