Donald Trump is set to become the first sitting US president to have his signature on US banknotes, the treasury department has announced. Trump's signature will appear alongside Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, an unprecedented move that the department said would mark America's 250th anniversary. There is no more powerful way to recognize the historic achievements of our great country and President Donald J Trump than US dollar bills bearing his name, Bessent said. US banknotes have traditionally carried the signatures of treasury officials.

It is the latest move by the administration to associate Trump's name with a range of government programmes and public buildings. The first $100 bills with the signatures of Trump and Bessent will be printed in June, with others to follow. Notes currently being printed bear the signatures of former President Joe Biden's Treasury Secretary, Janet Yellen, and Treasurer Lynn Malerba.

Traditionally since 1861, the signature of the US treasurer has appeared on bank notes, a practice that would end under the Trump administration's plans. Ahead of the 250th anniversary, Bessent said printing currency bearing Trump's name would be a powerful way to recognize the historic achievements of our great country and the president. Current US Treasurer Brandon Beach vowed the country's currency will continue to stand as a symbol of prosperity, strength, and the unshakable spirit of the American people.

This year celebrates the 250th anniversary of the formal declaration of independence by the original American colonies. In response to this announcement, California governor Gavin Newsom, a known critic of Trump, pointed out the economic challenges faced by Americans, highlighting the impact of rising costs on everyday expenses. Earlier this month, a federal arts commission approved a commemorative 24-karat gold coin bearing the image of Trump, also to honor America's 250th birthday.