The U.S. Treasury Department announced on March 26, 2026, that President Donald Trump’s signature will appear on all future U.S. paper currency. The decision marked the first time in American history that a sitting president’s name will be printed on dollar bills.
U.S. paper currency has traditionally carried only the signatures of the Treasury Secretary and the U.S. Treasurer since its introduction in 1861. Congress authorized the Treasury Secretary to design and print paper currency, known as “greenbacks,” in 1862 to finance the Civil War. This long-standing practice will now change with the addition of the president’s signature.
The Treasury Department stated that the change will honor the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence this year. The department released few other details about the rollout timeline.
Scott Bessent, Treasury Secretary, issued a statement explaining the rationale behind the decision. “Under President Trump’s leadership, we are on a path toward unprecedented economic growth, lasting dollar dominance, and fiscal strength and stability,” Bessent said. He added, “There is no more powerful way to recognize the historic achievements of our great country and President Donald J. Trump than U.S dollar bills bearing his name, and it is only appropriate that this historic currency be issued at the Semiquincentennial.”
Brandon Beach, U.S. Treasurer, also supported the move. “As the 250th anniversary of our great nation approaches, American currency will continue to stand as a symbol of prosperity, strength, and the unshakable spirit of the American people under President Trump’s leadership,” Beach stated. He continued, “The President’s mark on history as the architect of America’s Golden Age economic revival is undeniable. Printing his signature on the American currency is not only appropriate, but also well deserved.”
