Two Republican lawmakers have indicated their intention to introduce a bill aimed at commemorating the late conservative activist Charlie Kirk by minting images and names on close to half a million new silver dollar coins.
We reached out to the U.S. Treasury Department via email for their thoughts on this initiative.
Why is it important?
Kirk, who was just 31, lost his life in a tragic shooting at the American Comeback Tour event in Utah Valley University on September 10. The alleged shooter, Tyler Robinson, 22, has been apprehended and faces charges including aggravated murder.
News of Kirk’s death spread rapidly, provoking widespread condemnation of the violence from various leaders across the political spectrum. Many members of the Trump administration attended a memorial for Kirk in Arizona last weekend, where both Vice President J.D. Vance and former President Donald Trump took to the stage to speak.
Throughout history, notable figures have been depicted on U.S. currency, with various commemorative coins being issued over time. However, a law from 1866 forbids living individuals from appearing on U.S. coins.
What do you know?
The proposed legislation calls for the U.S. Treasury to create 400,000 silver dollar coins featuring Kirk’s likeness. Along with his image, the coins would carry the inscription “Well done, good and faithful servant.” According to reports, these coins are expected to be minted in 2026.
Pfluger, who chairs the Republican Research Committee, conveyed his support for Kirk, referring to him as “a conservative titan” in a statement. He believes Kirk “deserves lasting recognition” alongside the significant leaders of the nation. Hamade, on the other hand, referred to him as a “national treasure.”
Pfluger stated, “This commemorative coin serves as a fitting tribute to immortalize Charlie in legal American currency, solidifying his impressive legacy alongside those who have shaped our republic.”
Hamade emphasized that Kirk’s “life must be memorialized,” suggesting the coin would serve as a reminder of his remarkable journey for future generations. As it stands, if the law passes, Kirk would become the only living individual featured on U.S. currency, which typically adheres to longstanding regulations against such practices.
There has been significant attention on Kirk since his passing, with broad proposals, including legislative actions in Oklahoma aimed at honoring him through state universities and public statuary.
What people are saying
Senator Rick Scott expressed to the U.S. Senate: “As we grieve this immense loss, let’s come together as a community to pray for his family and our nation, honoring Charlie by believing in the strength of our ideas and striving to leave the country in a better state.”
Richard Corcoran, President of Florida’s new university, remarked: “Charlie Kirk understood that the university was the epicenter for free speech and intellectual exchange. These principles are not just optional; they are fundamental to the viability of our republic. His life and tragic demise remind us that surrendering these rights is not an option.”
What will happen next
Once the proposal is officially made, the currency bill will undergo the standard legislative procedures.
Updated 9/24/25, 5:42 PM ET: This article has been revised with additional comments from representatives in August, including Abraham Hamadeh, and further information.
