Two House Republicans, August Pfluger and Abe Hamadeh, have introduced a proposal to honor Charlie Kirk, a prominent conservative activist who was assassinated earlier this month, by placing his likeness on U.S. currency. The legislation, aimed at minting 400,000 silver dollar coins with Kirk’s portrait, represents the latest effort by GOP lawmakers to commemorate Kirk’s life and legacy, which was cut short during a speaking event at a college campus in Utah. Pfluger and Hamadeh argue that Kirk’s impact on conservative activism and his dedication to a ‘free and prosperous America’ deserve permanent recognition alongside historical figures such as presidents and founding fathers.
The proposed coin would feature Kirk’s image on one side and the words ‘well done, good and faithful servant’ on the other, along with his full name, the year 2026, and the United States’ official name and motto. The final design would be determined by the Treasury Secretary in consultation with the sitting president, currently Donald Trump. Pfluger emphasized that Kirk, aged 31 at the time of the coin’s minting, would become the youngest American to be honored on U.S. currency, noting this as a ‘fitting honor’ that aligns his legacy with the nation’s most influential leaders.
However, the proposal faces the longstanding challenge of the 1866 law that prohibits the use of living individuals on U.S. currency. Historically, commemorative coins have honored deceased figures such as Benjamin Franklin, Alexander Hamilton, and Susan B. Anthony, though the tradition of featuring living people remains rare. The effort to place Kirk on currency is part of a broader movement by GOP lawmakers to address political violence and honor his legacy. Other measures include a bipartisan resolution passed by the House to condemn political violence, as well as proposals for a congressional gold medal, a day of remembrance, and a statue at the U.S. Capitol in his honor.
While the proposal has drawn attention, it remains unclear whether it will pass, especially given the political sensitivities of the issue and the existing legal restrictions. Nonetheless, the effort underscores the deep impact Kirk had on conservative activists and the GOP’s desire to cement his legacy. As discussions continue, the debate over honoring living figures on currency may spark further discourse on what constitutes a ‘national treasure’ and how such recognition should be extended in the future.