Trump‑linked “GOLD” token collapses after launch on Solana

Within hours of its launch, the Solana‑based token marketed as “Trump Digital GOLD” saw its market value plunge from roughly $50 million to $500 000, prompting concerns over the token’s legitimacy and the role of the Real Trump Coins brand.

Promotion and sudden removal

The Real Trump Coins X account, which is followed by former President Donald Trump’s official account, announced the token launch on Saturday and directed users to RealTrumpCoins.com. Posts about the token were later deleted, and the website continued to advertise a 4% trading fee and a promise to use 99% of fees for buy‑backs.

Concentrated ownership and rapid sell‑off

Blockchain analytics platform Lookonchain reported that the developer held 600 million GOLD tokens, while 15 newly created wallets—linked to the team—acquired 224.5 million tokens for $18 657. Those wallets subsequently sold the entire amount for 3 178 SOL (about $330 000), realizing a profit of roughly $312 000, or 17‑times the initial outlay.

Market impact

Following the sell‑off, the token’s market capitalization fell by about 99%, and its price dropped nearly 98%, leading Lookonchain to label the event a “rug pull.”

Background on Real Trump Coins

Real Trump Coins was publicly promoted by Donald Trump in September 2024 as the exclusive source for his silver medallions. The site states that its products are not produced or sold by the Trump Organization. The abrupt promotion and removal of GOLD‑related posts have sparked speculation that the brand’s online accounts may have been compromised, with unverified reports suggesting possible involvement of Iranian hackers.

Regulatory context

The incident adds to scrutiny of Trump‑associated crypto projects as the former president urges Congress to pass a “fair version” of the CLARITY Act, legislation intended to clarify regulatory treatment of crypto assets.