The design for this special passport, showcasing Trump’s serious expression, had been considered for several months before receiving approval late Monday. Between 25,000 and 30,000 new passports will be available to applicants at the Washington, D.C. passport office in advance of July 4.
This initiative marks yet another occasion for Trump’s name and likeness to be incorporated into various prominent tributes, including efforts to place his signature on all new U.S. currency and featuring his portrait on a gold commemorative coin celebrating the nation’s founding.
The commemorative passport will be issued by default for those applying in person at the Washington office, but individuals seeking a standard passport may opt to apply online or outside of Washington, according to officials.
“As the United States commemorates its 250th anniversary in July, the State Department is preparing to issue a limited number of specially designed U.S. passports for this significant event,” said State Department spokesman Tommy Pigott.
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“These passports will feature unique artwork and enhanced imagery while retaining the same security features that ensure the U.S. passport remains one of the most secure documents globally,” he added.
The limited-edition passport will display Trump’s image alongside a gold foil version of his signature on one of the interior pages, while the cover will feature “United States of America” in bold gold text on the top and “Passport” at the bottom, which inverts the usual cover design.
Additionally, a small gold-laminated American flag with the number 250 encircled by stars will appear on the lower back cover.
The Bulwark previously reported on these commemorative passports.
Currently, the only presidents depicted on U.S. passports are featured in a double-page illustration of Mount Rushmore, which includes George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln.
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Other notable images included are the Statue of Liberty, the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall in Philadelphia, and various scenes representing the Great Plains, mountains, and islands. Existing passports also feature quotes from Martin Luther King Jr. along with Presidents Washington, Jefferson, Roosevelt, John F. Kennedy, and Dwight Eisenhower.
Incorporating Trump’s picture and signature into the passport is the latest effort by his aides to boost the president’s visibility, which has also included naming the U.S. Institute of Peace building and the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts after him.
Trump has also stirred discussion with his plans for a new White House ballroom and a large arch proposed for one of the entry points into Washington from Virginia.
