The US Treasury is considering a $1 coin to mark the country’s 250th anniversary, featuring Donald Trump with a raised fist and the words “fight, fight, fight.” The phrase references Trump’s statement following a narrowly survived assassination attempt four months before winning a second presidential term.
US Treasurer Brandon Beach shared a draft design on X, stating, “No fake news here. These drafts honoring America’s 250th birthday and [Trump] are real.” He added that further details would follow after the partial government shutdown ends. The shutdown began when Senate Democrats declined a Republican-backed funding bill over disagreements on healthcare and other spending priorities.
The draft design shows Trump’s profile with the words “Liberty,” “In God We Trust,” and “1776–2026” on one side. The other side depicts Trump with a clenched fist in front of an American flag, recalling the attack at a Pennsylvania rally last year, where a sniper injured Trump’s ear and wounded two others before being neutralized by the US Secret Service. This was one of two assassination attempts Trump faced while campaigning for a second term in 2024.
A Treasury Department spokesperson told Politico that the draft shared by Beach is not the final coin design. The statement said the draft “reflects well the enduring spirit of our country and democracy, even in the face of immense obstacles.” The US Mint’s commemorative coin program has historically raised over $500 million in surcharges, funding federal museums, monuments, and historical sites.
Trump’s popularity has declined amid controversial policies. His approval rating currently averages -9.5 percent, affected by cuts to healthcare protections and nutrition assistance for low-income Americans, as well as tariffs linked to rising consumer prices. A Pew Research poll conducted September 22–28 of 3,445 US adults found that 53 percent believe Trump has worsened the economy, while only 24 percent said he improved it.
The administration has also faced criticism for deploying military troops to multiple cities, cutting nearly $500 million in vaccine funding, and dealing with scandals involving Trump’s past association with the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
The proposed coin has sparked debate over its design and political message. Supporters view it as a bold celebration of resilience and national pride. Critics argue it glorifies a polarizing figure during a divisive period in US politics. The phrase “fight, fight, fight” has drawn attention for its connection to a violent event in Trump’s recent history.
Historically, the US Mint has issued commemorative coins for major milestones, often featuring presidents or historical figures. The proposed Trump coin would join a long line celebrating the country’s semiquincentennial and other anniversaries. The Mint emphasizes that commemorative coins honor the nation’s heritage, with proceeds supporting public institutions.
Treasury officials are reviewing the design with input from the Mint and other government agencies to ensure it meets commemorative standards. Once finalized, the coin could be released as part of the 2026 program, offering collectors a limited-edition piece celebrating the United States’ 250th anniversary.
The Trump $1 coin highlights the intersection of politics, history, and national symbolism. While some Americans may see it as a tribute to leadership and perseverance, others view it as a contentious political statement. Regardless, the proposal has captured national attention, showing how commemorative coins can become a medium for both celebration and debate.
With government operations paused, the coin remains a draft. Final approval is expected once the partial shutdown ends, with distribution following established commemorative programs. The outcome will mark a unique addition to the nation’s long history of commemorating milestones through coins and medals, now reflecting contemporary politics.
