Trump’s signature on the dollar to end 165-year US tradition

The United States is preparing an unusual redesign of its banknotes that will also bring a 165-year tradition to a symbolic end. From this summer, President Donald Trump’s signature is to appear on US dollar notes – a step the Treasury Department describes as historic, as no sitting president has previously signed the currency.

The change coincides with the 250th anniversary of US independence, with the first of the redesigned $100 bills due to be printed in June.

The new design will also remove the Treasurer’s signature, which has appeared on the notes since 1861. Other elements, including portraits of deceased figures, will remain.

The administration presents the move as a symbol of the country’s economic stability and success. Critics, however, warn that it represents another attempt by Trump to project his name across the public sphere, from buildings to coins.

The change will be introduced gradually, and its ultimate impact will depend on how it is received by both the public and financial institutions.

(reuters, pir)