According to a report by Wall Street Journal on Thursday, May 28, 2026, the U.S. Treasury Department is considering preliminary steps toward issuing a new $250 bill that could feature President Donald Trump’s portrait, though officials stress that the plan cannot proceed without congressional approval.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent confirmed on Thursday that discussions are underway within the administration, but emphasized that current U.S. law prohibits living individuals from appearing on federal currency.
“For U.S. currency at present, no living person can be on U.S. currency,” Bessent said, adding that any change would require legislation passed by Congress before design work could move forward.
According to individuals familiar with the discussions, U.S. Treasurer Brandon Beach and senior adviser Michael Brown have engaged with the Bureau of Engraving and Printing as part of early-stage planning. One of the officials reportedly requested a mock-up design of Trump featured on a $250 denomination note.
The proposal is linked to broader legislative efforts in Congress that seek to authorize commemorative currency marking the 250th anniversary of the United States. The plan would require an exception to long-standing federal restrictions that prevent depictions of living persons on currency.
Officials described the current activity as preparatory only, noting that the Treasury is exploring design possibilities in case lawmakers approve the measure. Any final decision would rest with Congress and follow the standard approval process for U.S. banknotes.
The Bureau of Engraving and Printing is also understood to be conducting technical assessments related to the feasibility of introducing a new denomination, which would represent an unusual addition to the current U.S. currency structure.
The discussion remains at an early stage, with no formal authorization granted and no production timeline established. Treasury officials reiterated that all work remains contingent on future legislative action before any design featuring Trump or a new $250 bill could be officially developed or circulated.
