The Bank of Ghana (BoG) is set to introduce a new series of Ghana cedi banknotes, known as the Heritage Series, as part of efforts to modernise the country’s currency and enhance its security and durability.
Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr Johnson Pandit Asiama, announced the initiative on Thursday, September 24, 2026, at the conclusion of the 132nd Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting.
The new banknotes will feature upgraded security features, improved durability and contemporary designs intended to highlight Ghana’s heritage, culture and national identity.
Dr Asiama explained that the current designs have been in circulation for more than 20 years, making an update necessary as currency technology and security standards continue to evolve.
“The upgraded banknotes incorporate enhanced security features, improved durability, and modern designs that reflect Ghana’s heritage and Ghana’s aspirations,” he said.
According to the Governor, the Heritage Series is expected to strengthen the protection of the cedi against counterfeiting while allowing the notes to withstand prolonged use and helping the central bank manage currency more efficiently.
The new series will also provide an opportunity to recognise Ghanaian national heroes and showcase important aspects of the country’s history, culture and identity.
Existing banknotes will remain legal tender
The Bank of Ghana has clarified that the introduction of the Heritage Series will not result in the immediate withdrawal of existing cedi banknotes.
The new notes will circulate alongside the current banknotes, which will continue to be accepted as legal tender.
“There is no need for the public to rush to exchange or to withdraw existing notes solely because of the introduction of the new Heritage Series,” Dr Asiama said.
He urged the public to continue using existing banknotes normally and assured them that they would remain valid even after the new series is introduced.
Heritage Series launch set for November 3
The Bank of Ghana is scheduled to officially launch the Heritage Series on November 3, 2026, at the Bank Square in Accra.
Ahead of the launch, Dr Asiama appealed to individuals, businesses, traders and financial institutions to handle banknotes properly to preserve their quality and reduce the cost associated with replacing damaged currency.
He specifically urged the public to avoid crumpling, writing on, stapling or using banknotes for decorative purposes, including money bouquets and currency spraying.
“Proper handling will help preserve the quality of our banknotes. It will reduce replacement costs for the central bank and it will support efficient currency management,” he said.
The Governor described the preservation of the integrity of Ghana’s currency as a shared responsibility and urged Ghanaians to embrace the new Heritage Series while adopting better practices for handling the cedi.
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