The State Department is releasing limited-edition passports featuring President Trump’s face to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary. Only 25,000 will be made and they’ll only be available at one location in Washington D.C.
These aren’t your regular passports. They’re collector’s items that most Americans will never get their hands on. The timing and exclusivity has people wondering if this is more about creating controversy than celebrating history.
What Makes These Passports Different
The special passports have three major changes from normal ones. The back cover gets a golden embossed flag with “250” in the center. Inside, there’s Trump’s portrait on one page and a painting of the Founding Fathers signing the Declaration of Independence on another.
Regular passport artwork has been swapped out too. Gone is the image of Francis Scott Key, the guy who wrote the Star Spangled Banner. Also removed is a quote from African American author Anna Julia Cooper.
The State Department says they’ll roll out in July and be available “for as long as there is availability.” But with only one location in D.C. and a tiny production run, most people won’t even have a chance to get one.
The Real Purpose
Critics say these passports are designed to create outrage and division rather than celebrate America’s birthday. The limited availability means they’ll likely become expensive collector’s items on the resale market. Whether you love them or hate them, that’s probably exactly the reaction they were designed to get.
