The US Mint has commenced production of a commemorative one-dollar gold coin featuring the likeness of President Donald Trump, the Treasury Department announced on Wednesday.
The coin is part of the official celebrations for the US Semiquincentennial, marking the 250th anniversary of the nation's founding.
The obverse displays the president's portrait with the word "LIBERTY" and the dates "1776-2026," while the reverse bears the Great Seal of the United States.
The decision has triggered immediate controversy regarding its compliance with federal law.
Under current US statutes, the likeness of any living person is prohibited from appearing on circulating currency.
While the coin is designated as a commemorative issue rather than legal tender for general circulation, critics argue the move circumvents the spirit of the law and sets a problematic precedent for the politicization of national numismatic programs.