President Donald Trump’s appointment of billionaire investor Scott Bessent as treasury secretary signals a broader strategy to maintain the “[dollar] as the reserve currency of the world.” The statement underscores the enduring dominance of the U.S. dollar—a currency that wields immense influence on the global stage in both physical and digital forms. While this dominance is increasingly contested, it remains a critical lever of American power.

Aligned with the incoming Trump administration’s overarching goals, the dollar—whether minted or virtual—must be leveraged as a strategic asset. As cryptocurrencies emerge and proliferate, the challenges facing the physical dollar persist, demanding sharper political and operational focus. These pressures amplify the dollar’s role as both an economic tool and a potent emblem of American strength.

Globally, the dollar’s reach is unparalleled. It is not just a national currency but often an international one, adopted by some nations outright and used as an alternative medium of exchange in many others. Even as some governments consider restricting cash dollar transactions, the greenback’s influence remains deeply entrenched. For Americans, the dollar carries profound symbolic and practical value, embodying their economic ideals.

With Trump’s tariff threats looming over imports from both allies and adversaries, a robust dollar positions the U.S. strongly. Bessent framed tariffs as “a useful tool for achieving the president’s foreign policy objectives,” whether compelling allies to increase defense spending, opening markets for U.S. exports, curbing illegal immigration, or deterring military aggression. This multifaceted approach elevates the dollar’s stature as a tool of economic and geopolitical leverage.

At the heart of these efforts lies the U.S. Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP), led by its director, Patricia “Patty” S. Collins. As the steward of America’s most iconic symbol of economic might, the BEP shoulders a weighty responsibility. A high-tech enterprise, the Bureau ensures the highest standards of quality and efficiency through an intricate production ecosystem. This includes manufacturing, supply chain management, engineering, and facilities operations—all synchronized to meet the demands of the American economy and beyond. A failure to deliver, whether due to insufficient supply or shifting economic realities, would undermine confidence in the currency and the nation.

Every component of BEP’s production system—from paper and ink to state-of-the-art machinery—must function seamlessly. High standards are critical, as even minor lapses can disrupt the currency’s utility in sensitive systems like ATMs and cash registers. A stark reminder came in 2010 when manufacturing errors delayed the release of a new $100 bill, costing the government $120 million and underscoring the stakes involved.

Today, the BEP’s meticulous processes minimize such risks. Advanced technology and strong partnerships with suppliers ensure operational precision. Yet, the Bureau faces continuous pressure to innovate—particularly in countering counterfeiters. New security features are constantly developed to safeguard the dollar’s integrity, as outlined in the BEP’s Strategic Plan 2022-2026. The plan aims to introduce a “next family of manufacturable banknotes” that balance security, accessibility, and functionality.

However, such innovation presents challenges. The introduction of new technologies and security measures requires careful coordination and expertise. Compounding this is a generational shift within the Bureau, with retiring veterans transferring knowledge to a new cadre of professionals. This transition demands exceptional collaboration across the supply chain to maintain operational excellence.

Adding complexity is the BEP’s planned relocation of its D.C. facility to Maryland, a move necessitating a transitional period where three locations—including one in Texas—will operate simultaneously. Despite these logistical challenges, the consistency of production processes across sites provides a measure of stability during this critical period.

The BEP’s mission is further complicated by the evolving landscape of security printing. Unlike other industries, currency printing suppliers operate under strict secrecy, developing patented features and equipment to maintain technological superiority. As counterfeiters grow more sophisticated, the Bureau’s equipment must not only meet today’s challenges but anticipate future threats. These high-tech machines represent decades of innovation, ensuring both quality and operational continuity.

The Bureau has proven its resilience, most recently during the COVID-19 pandemic, when it adapted to fluctuating demand. However, future success will depend on its ability to navigate the entropy of emerging challenges.

As the BEP grapples with these demands, the dollar’s role as a global reserve currency remains a potent force. Its future, however, is not guaranteed. While the Bureau’s operational strengths provide a solid foundation, the uncertainties of leadership, policy shifts, and external pressures will shape the trajectory of America’s most enduring symbol of economic power. The stakes are high, but so too is the potential to ensure the dollar’s continued preeminence in a rapidly changing world.