The Bank of Ghana (BoG) will introduce a new family of cedi banknotes known as the Heritage Series from November this year, marking the most significant redesign of the country’s currency in more than two decades.
Announcing the initiative after the Monetary Policy Committee’s latest policy decision, Governor Dr. Johnson Pandit Asiama said the move forms part of efforts to modernise Ghana’s currency system, enhance security features and improve the durability of banknotes in circulation.
The Governor stressed that the cedi remains more than a medium of exchange, describing it as a symbol of Ghana’s economic sovereignty and a critical instrument for economic activity.
“As we modernise our financial systems and respond to the changing demands of a dynamic economy, we must also ensure that our currency remains secure, durable, resilient and fit for the future,” he stated.
According to Dr. Asiama, the central bank’s existing core banknote designs have been in circulation for more than 20 years, during which technological advancements and evolving currency management practices have necessitated an upgrade.
The new Heritage Series will incorporate enhanced anti-counterfeiting features, stronger durability standards and modern designs intended to reflect Ghana’s cultural heritage and future aspirations.
“The upgraded banknotes incorporate enhanced security features, improved durability and modern designs that reflect Ghana’s heritage and Ghana’s aspirations,” the Governor said.
He explained that the redesigned notes are expected to provide stronger protection against counterfeiting, withstand prolonged circulation and support more efficient currency management.
Heritage and national identity at the centre
Beyond the technical improvements, the BoG sees the new notes as an opportunity to celebrate Ghana’s history and identity.
Dr. Asiama said each denomination within the Heritage Series has been inspired by Ghanaian iconography and national symbols, telling the story of the country’s past while projecting confidence about its future.
“The Heritage Series also provides a unique opportunity to honour our national heroes and celebrate Ghana’s heritage, culture and identity through modern and progressive currency designs,” he noted.
The Governor described the series with the slogan “The Cedi, Our Future – Secure, Designed to Last.”
Seeking to allay concerns among businesses and the general public, the Governor emphasised that the introduction of the Heritage Series does not mean existing banknotes will be withdrawn from circulation.
Instead, the new notes will circulate alongside current cedi banknotes, which will continue to retain their status as legal tender.
“The public should continue to use existing banknotes alongside the upgraded notes that will be introduced,” he said.
“There is no need for the public to rush to exchange or withdraw existing notes solely because of the introduction of the new Heritage Series.”
The assurance is expected to prevent unnecessary pressure on banks and currency exchange operations ahead of the rollout.
The Governor also used the occasion to urge Ghanaians to treat banknotes with greater care, arguing that maintaining the integrity of the currency is a shared responsibility.
He criticised common practices that damage notes, including writing on banknotes, stapling them, crumpling them and using cash for decorative purposes such as money bouquets or spraying at social events.
According to him, such practices increase replacement costs for the central bank and undermine efficient currency management.
“Let us desist from crumpling, writing on them, stapling them or using banknotes for decorating purposes,” he said.
Proper handling of currency, he added, will help preserve note quality, reduce replacement expenses and strengthen the overall efficiency of cash circulation in the economy.
Official launch set for November 3
The Bank of Ghana has scheduled the official launch of the Heritage Series for November 3, 2026, at Bank Square in Accra.
Dr. Asiama called on Ghanaians to embrace the new notes with confidence and a sense of national pride, saying the upgraded currency represents both the country’s heritage and its aspirations for the future.
The launch will usher in a new chapter in Ghana’s currency history as the central bank seeks to align the cedi with evolving global security standards while preserving the symbols and values that define the nation.
