Donald Trump has joined a small group of serving world leaders whose portraits appear on national currency.
The United States released a new $1 coin featuring Trump’s image on September 2. The coin marks 250 years since the signing of the US Declaration of Independence.
In Africa, there are already similar examples. Morocco’s King Mohammed VI and Eswatini’s King Mswati III both appear on their countries’ currency while remaining in power.
Trump $1 coin marks US anniversary
The new Trump $1 coin features a portrait of the US president.
It also carries the words “LIBERTY” and “IN GOD WE TRUST,” alongside the dates “1776 ~ 2026.”
Meanwhile, the other side features the Presidential Seal and the number 250.
The U.S. Mint produced the coin at its Philadelphia facility. Chief Engraver Joseph Menna designed Trump’s portrait using an official White House photograph.
The release is unusual in modern US history. Trump is the first living US president in 100 years to appear on a circulating coin.
African monarchs already appear on currency
However, serving leaders appearing on national currency is not unique to the United States.
Morocco’s King Mohammed VI appears on Moroccan banknotes while continuing to serve as the country’s monarch.
Similarly, King Mswati III appears on Eswatini’s currency. His portrait can be seen on the country’s E200 banknote.
As a result, the two monarchs provide current African examples of living heads of state appearing on national money.
Africa also has several historical examples.
Former Zaire leader Mobutu Sese Seko appeared on the country’s currency. Kenya’s Daniel arap Moi also appeared on Kenyan money during his presidency.
In addition, Uganda’s Idi Amin and Milton Obote appeared on currency. Tanzania’s Julius Nyerere provides another example.
Trump $1 coin attracts attention
The Trump $1 coin has attracted attention in the United States.
Traditionally, the country has avoided putting living presidents on its national currency. Therefore, Trump’s appearance marks a significant break from modern US practice.
The U.S. Mint says legislation passed in 2020 authorised special $1 coins for America’s 250th anniversary.
The coin has a circulating finish. It mainly contains copper, while zinc, manganese and nickel are also used.
For Trump, the release creates an unusual connection with several African leaders.
King Mohammed VI and King Mswati III already see their portraits used on national currency. Now, the sitting US president has joined that small group of current world leaders.