Get ready for a new U.S. passport that merges American art history with... well, recent American history. The State Department just rolled out a limited-edition design featuring John Trumbull's iconic 1817 painting, Declaration of Independence. Because apparently, that's where we are now.
This isn't just any old passport refresh. It's a special release to celebrate the nation's 250th anniversary. And while the Trumbull painting is a genuinely grand nod to the past, its placement is certainly, shall we say, contemporary.
For those who haven't brushed up on their art history lately, Trumbull's famous 18-foot-long masterpiece doesn't actually show the signing of the Declaration. Instead, it captures the moment the draft was presented to Congress in 1776. Trumbull, ever the detail man, managed to include 42 of the eventual signatories, though he'd originally aimed for all 56. The original hangs majestically in the U.S. Capitol Rotunda, and a smaller version lives at the Yale University Art Gallery.
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Now, about the passport itself. The Trumbull painting takes pride of place on one side. And directly facing it, on the opposite page? A portrait of Donald Trump, positioned above the Declaration of Independence text. Because, you know, balance. The back of the passport features an American flag, with the number "250" replacing the stars, just to hammer home the anniversary theme.
A State Department spokesperson confirmed to Fox News that these special passports are indeed for America's 250th birthday in July. They'll be available to "any American citizen" — as long as the limited supply lasts. So, if you've ever wanted to carry a piece of art that sparks a very specific kind of dinner table conversation, now's your chance.
