A 165-year tradition shifts as Trump’s signature heads to US money

The US Treasury has announced a change to the way American paper currency is signed, marking a shift from a system that has been in place for more than 165 years.

Traditionally, US banknotes have carried two signatures: that of the Treasury Secretary and the US Treasurer, a practice dating back to 1861 when federal currency was first issued.

Under the new approach, President Donald Trump’s signature will appear on future US banknotes alongside the Treasury Secretary, replacing the signature of the Treasurer. This would mark the first time in US history that a sitting president’s signature appears on circulating paper currency.

Officials have linked the change to the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States, describing it as part of a broader effort to mark the milestone.

The overall design of the bills, including portraits and security features, is expected to remain unchanged.

The update reflects the Treasury’s authority to adjust certain elements of currency design while maintaining required features set by law.

The move also brings an end to a long-standing tradition, closing a chapter that has defined the appearance of US currency for generations.