Treasury Department confirms it has taken limited steps toward a $250 bill featuring Donald Trump

The U.S. Treasury Department is taking steps toward creating a $250 bill featuring Donald Trump, according to an agency spokesperson, anticipating the passage of stalled legislation in Congress to put the president on a new denomination of legal tender. The legislation, introduced by Representative Joe Wilson, R-S.C., would direct the department’s bureau of engraving and printing to put Trump’s face on the new bill to mark the 250th anniversary of the nation’s founding. If passed and signed into law by Trump, it would mark an extraordinary recognition for a sitting U.S. leader and comes as Trump has sought to place himself at the center of celebrations marking the country’s birthday. The Department’s preparation for the languishing legislation suggests some enthusiasm for the idea on the part of the Trump administration.The agency’s explanation follows a Washington Post report stating that U.S. Treasurer Brandon Beach, a Trump appointee, has been pushing the Bureau of Engraving and Printing to expedite the process for a new currency note. The paper also reported that the former BEP chief was reassigned after pushing back.

“In response to active legislation sponsored by Representative Joe Wilson, the Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP) is conducting appropriate planning and due diligence,” the spokeswoman said in a statement to The Associated Press. “Should this legislative mandate be signed into law, the BEP is moving proactively to produce a $250 commemorative note which will appropriately recognize the 250th Anniversary of our great nation.”