A significant departure from diplomatic protocol: the United States Department of State has confirmed that a portrait of former President Donald Trump will appear on US passports issued during the country’s 250th anniversary celebrations in 2026. The move, described by officials as a “temporary honour marking a pivotal era in American history,” has drawn both domestic criticism and international intrigue.
In an unprecedented reciprocal gesture, the Royal Mint in London has announced the production of a limited edition gold sovereign featuring the likeness of King Charles III alongside an American bald eagle and the year 1776. The sovereign, legal tender in the United Kingdom, is expected to be released on 4 July 2026.
Sources within the Foreign Office suggest the decision was made to “acknowledge the entwined histories of the two nations,” though critics argue it risks politicising a ceremonial act. The passport design, which will replace the standard eagle motif with Trump’s profile, is said to have been personally approved by the former president.
The move marks a sharp contrast to previous commemorative passport designs, which featured neutral symbols such as the Liberty Bell or Mount Rushmore. The inclusion of a living political figure on a passport is virtually without precedent among allied nations.
Legal experts question whether the passport redesign violates US regulations barring the use of government documents for political purposes. The State Department insists the design meets all legal requirements, noting that the 250th anniversary falls outside formal election cycles.
The Royal Mint’s sovereign, valued at roughly £400 per coin, is expected to mint 250,000 pieces. Profits from sales will be donated to the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, a gesture intended to underscore shared sacrifice.
Analysts view the reciprocal commemorations as a rare moment of warmth between the two countries, which have experienced diplomatic friction over trade and security policy in recent years. However, critics warn that tying national symbols to a single political figure risks undermining the impartiality of official documents.
The passport redesign will apply to new applications and renewals from 1 May 2026 to 31 December 2026. Existing passports will remain valid until their expiry date.
