In the latest viral social media trend, netizens are humorously weighing in on the idea that if former President Donald Trump truly wants his image on U.S. currency, he should advocate for the reintroduction of the penny—specifically, the now-defunct one bearing his portrait.
The joke emerged from a widely circulated meme featuring an image of a penny with Trump’s face stamped on it, accompanied by the caption: “If Trump wants his picture on money, he should bring back the penny with his portrait. It’s orange, practically useless, and costs more than it’s worth.” The meme has rapidly gained traction, sparking a humorous debate about the practicality—and symbolism—of currency design.
This playful jab touches on real issues surrounding U.S. coinage and currency production costs. Currently, the penny—though beloved by many for its familiarity—is increasingly considered an economic burden. According to the U.S. Mint, the cost to produce a penny surpasses its actual value, with estimates placing the production cost around 1.7 cents per coin, despite the face value being just one cent.
While the idea of reinstating presidential portraits on coins is nothing new—former presidents such as Abraham Lincoln, George Washington, and Thomas Jefferson have graced American currency—the move to bring back the penny with Trump’s face would be more notable due to the ongoing debate over the penny’s utility and cost-efficiency.
Social media users have been quick to respond with memes, jokes, and commentary. Some suggest that the obsession with presidential portraits on coinage is a relic of a bygone era, while others see the meme as a satirical commentary on political branding and cost-cutting measures.
Commentators also pointed out that, regardless of whether Trump’s face returns to the penny, the larger issue of government spending and coin production costs remain relevant topics of national discussion. Economists have long debated whether the penny—and the nickel, for that matter—should cease circulation altogether due to their low utility and high costs.
This viral meme exemplifies how social media can blend humor with political commentary, engaging audiences in discussions about history, economics, and even personal preferences in currency design. Whether or not the penny will make a comeback—or if Trump’s portrait will be featured—remains to be seen. Still, one thing is clear: Americans enjoy debates over pennies, portraits, and the cost of change.
Where to Learn More
- U.S. Mint Official Website – Updates on coin production and policies
- CNN: The Cost of Producing Pennies and Nickels
- Forbes: Should the US Get Rid of the Penny?
- NPR: The Case for and Against the Penny
