Commemorative coin with Trump’s portrait sparks debate in the US

A one-dollar commemorative coin featuring the portrait of U.S. President Donald Trump has been put on sale as part of preparations for the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States.

According to AFP, buyers can purchase the coin in packages of 25 or 100 pieces. The prices are $61 and $154, respectively.

The design shows an eagle, the American national symbol, on one side, while the other side bears Trump’s image. The portrait resembles his official photo, which was based on a mug shot taken during the investigation in Georgia over alleged interference in the 2020 presidential election.

The coin was approved in mid-March by the Commission of Fine Arts, whose members were appointed by Trump.

“As we approach the 250th anniversary, we are designing coins that represent the spirit of our nation and our democracy,” U.S. Treasury official Brandon Rich said at the time.

Rich added: “There is no more iconic portrait for these coins than that of President Donald Trump.”

The decision, however, has sparked widespread debate. In late February, the Citizens Coinage Advisory Committee (CCAC), another body that makes recommendations for new coins, declined to consider a proposal for a coin bearing Trump’s image.

Donald Scarinci, a member of the CCAC, stated that since the Declaration of Independence in 1776, the U.S. has not produced coins with the portrait of a democratically elected leader while he is in office.

“Only nations ruled by kings or dictators place their leaders’ image on their coins,” Scarinci declared.

Despite the objections, the coin with Trump’s portrait has already been put into circulation as part of the activities for the 250th anniversary of the United States, gaining special significance for collectors.