An advisory panel appointed by Donald Trump has approved the design of a commemorative gold coin bearing his image, officials said Thursday, a move that has drawn sharp criticism from Democratic opponents.
The US Commission of Fine Arts declined to comment when contacted, although several media outlets published images of the proposed design following its approval.
The coin is intended to mark the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States. One side features a stern depiction of Trump standing with clenched fists on a desk, while the reverse shows an eagle with outstretched wings perched on what appears to be a bell.
The commemorative coin will not carry a face value, and its sale price has not been disclosed. However, similar coins issued by the United States Mint have sold for more than $1,000.
“We are thrilled to prepare coins that represent the enduring spirit of our country and democracy, and there is no profile more emblematic for the front of such coins than that of our serving president,” US Treasurer Brandon Beach said in a statement.
Beach added that the design differs from other Trump-themed coins currently in development, including a circulating $1 coin and a one-ounce gold coin.
The development follows Trump’s decision last October to dismiss all six members of the Commission of Fine Arts and replace them with appointees aligned with his agenda, as part of a broader push involving renovation and construction projects since returning to office in January.
Among the most controversial initiatives are a proposed ballroom at the White House and the renovation of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, which he has renamed after himself.
Meanwhile, another advisory body, the Citizens Coinage Advisory Committee, had earlier declined in February to consider the Trump coin for discussion.
Since the signing of the United States Declaration of Independence, critics note that no democratic nation has issued coins featuring a sitting elected leader.
“Only those nations ruled by kings or dictators display the image of their sitting ruler on the coins of the realm,” said committee member Donald Scarinci at the time.
AFP
