The treasury department announced on Wednesday that the US Mint has started producing a new commemorative $1 coin featuring Donald Trump as part of the nation’s 250th anniversary celebration.

The coin is scheduled for release this fall. Treasury officials said its final design was approved earlier this year by the US Commission of Fine Arts, whose members were appointed by Trump.

However, the version revealed on Wednesday is not identical to the previously approved design. Among the changes, the coin has a gold finish rather than being made of solid gold.

Scott Bessent, the treasury secretary, said in an X post the coin is intended “to honor the enduring legacy of liberty and a lasting symbol of patriotism”, adding: “Featuring President Trump, it celebrates the strength of American values, and the promise of a nation dedicated to preserving freedom for all.”

The decision has sparked criticism because federal law bars living presidents from appearing on US currency. At the same time, the treasury secretary has authority in certain situations to authorize the minting and issuance of coins.

The front of the new coin shows Trump wearing a suit and tie with a stern expression. The word “LIBERTY” appears across the top edge, while the dates 1776-2026 are displayed along the bottom. The phrase “IN GOD WE TRUST” is positioned in the center.

On the reverse, the coin features the traditional bald eagle from the Great Seal of the United States. “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” is inscribed around the top edge, and the shield on the eagle’s chest bears the Latin phrase “E PLURIBUS UNUM”, meaning “Out of many, one.”

Trump has repeatedly sought to place his name and image on prominent institutions and projects, including the renaming of the US Institute of Peace, the Kennedy Center performing arts venue, and a new class of battleships, among other tributes.

In March, it was announced Trump’s signature would soon appear on US paper currency. The move marked the first time a sitting US president will have their signature appear on legal tender.

To accommodate this change, the treasurer’s signature will be removed for the first time since 1861.