A bipartisan bill introduced by U.S. Rep. Robert Aderholt to commemorate the nation’s 250th anniversary passed the U.S. House unanimously on Monday, marking a show of across-the-aisle support and unity.
The legislation, titled the Two Dollar and 50 Cent Coin for America’s 250th Act, authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury to issue a $2.50 commemorative coin as the country prepares to celebrate its Semiquincentennial in 2026. The bill also directs the Treasury Department to conduct a viability study on whether a circulating $2.50 coin could be used for everyday commerce.
Aderholt (R-Haleyville), who represents Alabama’s 4th Congressional District, introduced the bill alongside Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman of New Jersey. He spoke on the House floor ahead of the vote, urging colleagues to support the measure as a unifying way to mark a major national milestone.
“This coin is about more than a piece of metal, it’s about celebration, pride, and patriotism,” Aderholt said. “I still remember America’s 200th birthday in 1976 when I was 10 years old, and the incredible excitement and national unity that came with it. That Bicentennial celebration was something special, and I hope this coin helps spur that same kind of celebration and patriotism across our country as we approach America’s 250th anniversary. Americans from all walks of life should be able to carry a small reminder of our nation’s greatness with them every day, celebrating our country jingling right there in their pockets.”
Under the bill, the commemorative coin would feature the historic design first issued for America’s 150th anniversary in 1926, updated to reflect the 250-year milestone.
Watson Coleman, a co-sponsor of the legislation, said the measure continues a long-standing tradition of honoring key moments in American history through commemorative coinage.
“In 1776, the Declaration of Independence put into writing a set of ideals that reshaped this nation and influenced the world,” Watson Coleman said. “The Two Dollar and 50 Cent Coin for America’s 250th Act continues a long tradition of commemorating our nation’s milestones through coinage. As a co-founder and co-chair of the America 250 Caucus, and a member of the America 250 Commission, I’m grateful for the partnership with Rep. Aderholt and my House colleagues on a bipartisan basis as we prepare the nationwide celebration of America’s 250th birthday.”
Aderholt said the bill is intended to give Americans a tangible way to participate in the historic anniversary and complement other national America 250 initiatives.
“As we mark 250 years of independence, it is important we find meaningful ways to bring Americans together,” he said. “This coin offers a lasting tribute to our shared heritage and a reminder that what unites us is far greater than what divides us.”
The legislation now moves forward as part of broader national efforts to prepare for the Semiquincentennial, which will be observed across the country in 2026.
