Trump’s Signature to Appear on U.S. Currency for First Time in 165 Years

In a historic break from a 165-year tradition, the United States will include the signature of a sitting president—Donald Trump—on its paper currency for the first time. The new banknotes will feature Trump’s signature alongside that of Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent.

The decision has been made to mark the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence, also known as the Semiquincentennial, the U.S. Treasury Department announced on Thursday.

For more than a century and a half, U.S. banknotes have traditionally carried the signatures of the Treasury Secretary and the U.S. Treasurer. This long-standing practice, in place since 1861, will now change as the Treasurer’s signature is removed.

According to the Treasury Department, printing of newly designed $100 notes will begin in June, with the currency expected to enter circulation within a few weeks.

Since the introduction of federal currency in 1861, Trump will be the first sitting president to have his signature printed directly on U.S. banknotes.

The move marks a significant shift in the design of U.S. currency, ending the uninterrupted presence of the Treasurer’s signature for over 150 years.

Current U.S. Treasurer Brandon Beach has supported the decision, saying it represents the president’s leadership and commitment to the country.

Former Treasurer Lynn Malerba was the last official in a long line whose signature had appeared on U.S. currency since 1861. However, notes bearing the signatures of former Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen and Malerba will remain in circulation alongside the new series.

Treasury Secretary Bessent defended the decision, stating that it is a strong way to recognize the country’s historic achievements and President Trump’s contributions. He added that under Trump’s leadership, the United States is experiencing strong economic growth and continued global dominance of the dollar, making the timing appropriate.

Officials also said the move is part of a broader effort to highlight the president’s name and achievements. Earlier, a federal arts panel approved the design of a commemorative gold coin featuring Trump’s image for the 250th Independence anniversary.

Under current U.S. law, the Treasury Department has broad authority to redesign currency for security purposes. However, certain elements—such as the phrase “In God We Trust” and the use of portraits of deceased individuals—must remain unchanged. As a result, the overall design and imagery of the notes will stay the same, with only the Treasurer’s signature being replaced by Trump’s.

Although U.S. law prohibits the use of living individuals’ portraits on standard circulating coins—blocking proposals for a $1 coin featuring Trump’s image—there are no such restrictions on signatures. The new banknotes are expected to be introduced nationwide starting this summer.