US Arts Commission Approves Gold Coin Featuring Donald Trumps Image

US Commission Approves Gold Coin Featuring Donald Trump’s Portrait

The United States Commission of Fine Arts has approved plans for a commemorative gold coin featuring one of Donald Trump’s recent presidential portraits. The commission, composed of Trump appointees, voted unanimously in favor of minting the coin on Thursday.

As part of its efforts to honor Trump, the administration has also proposed putting his face on a $1 coin, despite federal law prohibiting the depiction of living presidents on US currency. Critics have questioned the legality and appropriateness of these initiatives.

The Commission of Fine Arts’ decision was made in accordance with federal regulations governing commemorative coins. However, some experts have raised concerns about the potential implications of minting such a coin.

A bipartisan federal panel, the Citizens Coinage Advisory Committee, has previously expressed reservations about Trump-themed coins. One member stated that the commission and committee are responsible for approving designs, but still expects them to proceed with minting both coins.

The gold coin is set to feature a bald eagle on one side and Trump’s portrait on the other, based on an image taken by photographer Daniel Torok and featured in the National Portrait Gallery. The design has been approved by Trump officials, including Chamberlain Harris, a Trump aide appointed to the arts commission.

Trump has expressed his preference for larger coins, citing discussions with the president. Megan Sullivan, acting chief at the Office of Design Management at the US Mint, confirmed that Trump had given his approval for the design.

This is not the first time Trump has sought to leave his mark on the federal government. He has placed his name on various institutions, including the US Institute of Peace and the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, which are subject to ongoing lawsuits.

Source: Al Jazeera