United States President Donald Trump has unveiled the latest design of a limited-edition commemorative U.S. passport featuring his portrait as part of celebrations marking America’s 250th anniversary.
Trump announced the new passport on his Truth Social platform, writing: “The U.S.A.’s New Passport, which says, ‘Welcome, but be good!'”
The design includes a passport page bearing an image of Trump seated behind the Resolute Desk, with the text of the original Declaration of Independence in the background and his signature at the bottom. The facing page features John Trumbull’s iconic painting, The Declaration of Independence.
The newly released rendering differs from an earlier version unveiled by the U.S. State Department in April, which used a different image of the president. The latest portrait appears to be based on Trump’s official portrait displayed at the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery in Washington.
The White House later shared the same design on its official X account with the caption: “New U.S. Passport to Commemorate America’s 250th.” However, when asked whether the newly posted image represents the final official design, the White House referred inquiries to the State Department, which had not immediately commented.
The commemorative passport was first announced in April as part of the nationwide events marking the 250th anniversary of American independence. According to the State Department, the special edition will feature custom artwork and enhanced imagery on the front, back and inside covers.
A State Department official previously said the commemorative passport would become the default version issued to applicants renewing their passports in person at the Washington Passport Agency once available. Passport renewals processed online or at other passport agencies will continue using the existing design.
The standard U.S. passport currently features Percy Moran’s painting of Francis Scott Key on the inside front cover, depicting the morning after the bombardment of Fort McHenry, the battle that inspired the writing of The Star-Spangled Banner. Excerpts from the national anthem also appear on the page.
The unveiling of the redesigned passport comes as the United States prepares for a year-long series of events commemorating the nation’s 250th anniversary, although the inclusion of Trump’s likeness is likely to generate political debate over the balance between celebrating the country’s history and highlighting the sitting president.
