Americans can now get their hands on a new $1 coin featuring President Donald Trump, but buying one directly from the U.S. Mint comes with an unusual price tag.
Although each coin has a face value of just $1, a roll of 25 costs $61, while a bag of 100 sells for $154.50. That means collectors pay considerably more than the coins would be worth if they simply spent them at a store.
The coins were released in September to commemorate America’s 250th anniversary, and they’re already attracting attention for more than just their price.
How Much Do the New Trump Coins Cost?
According to the U.S. Mint, the coins are offered in two collectible packages.
A roll containing 25 coins costs $61, even though the coins have a combined face value of $25. That’s an additional $36, or roughly $2.44 per coin.
A bag of 100 coins costs $154.50, compared with its $100 face value.
The gold-colored coins feature Trump’s portrait on the front and the Presidential Seal on the back, along with markings recognizing the nation’s 250th anniversary. Despite their appearance, they’re made from a copper-based alloy rather than gold.
The Mint currently lists both packages as unavailable.
Americans Are Being Encouraged to Spend Them
The coins have also become the subject of an unusual suggestion from U.S. Treasurer Brandon Beach.
As reported by Newsweek, Beach encouraged Americans to obtain rolls of the new coins and spend them at businesses with liberal political leanings.
In a TikTok video, he suggested using the coins to buy coffee and watch the reaction.
Beach also said banks would offer the coins in November, providing another potential way for Americans to obtain them.
Can You Actually Spend the Coins?
Yes. Despite being sold as collectible items, the Trump dollar coins are legal tender and can be used for everyday purchases.
However, there’s an important distinction between their collectible selling price and their spending value.
A coin purchased through the U.S. Mint as part of a $61 roll still has a face value of $1 when used to pay for something. Spending all 25 coins would provide $25 in purchasing power, regardless of what the buyer originally paid.
That doesn’t mean everyone who gets one has to pay a premium. Coins acquired through banks or ordinary circulation may be available at face value, depending on availability.
Related: The Most Valuable Pennies Still Hiding in Circulation Today
Are the Coins Worth Buying?
That depends on whether someone wants the coins as collectibles or plans to use them as everyday money.
For collectors interested in commemorative coins, the special packaging and anniversary design may be part of the appeal. The Mint also says it randomly included a limited number of coins bearing a special July 4 marking in its rolls and bags.
But for anyone simply looking to spend them, paying $61 for $25 in purchasing power is a significant difference.
The coins may have collectible appeal, but there’s no guarantee they’ll increase in value over time.
