The Bank of Ghana has announced plans to introduce a new series of Ghana cedi banknotes, known as the Heritage Series, in a move that will change the look and security features of the country’s currency.
The new notes are expected to come with improved security features and greater durability, while also reflecting Ghana’s history, culture and national identity.
However, the introduction of the Heritage Series does not mean Ghana is redenominating the cedi or withdrawing the current banknotes from circulation.
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The Bank of Ghana has said the existing notes will remain legal tender and will circulate alongside the new notes.
This means Ghanaians will not have to rush to banks to exchange their current money when the new notes are introduced.
Why is BoG introducing new notes?
The current banknote designs have been in circulation for more than two decades.
According to the Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr Johnson Pandit Asiama, changes in technology and security standards have made it necessary to modernise the notes.
“The upgraded banknotes incorporate enhanced security features, improved durability, and modern designs that reflect Ghana’s heritage and Ghana’s aspirations,” Dr Asiama said at the 132nd MPC press briefing in Accra on September 24, 2026.
The new features are expected to make the notes harder to counterfeit and better able to withstand regular use.
What will change for Ghanaians?
For the average consumer, the most visible change will be the appearance and security features of the banknotes.
People will gradually begin to see the new Heritage Series notes in circulation, but they can continue using the existing notes.
Dr Asiama said, “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.”
This means the introduction is not a currency swap or an exercise that will immediately make existing money worthless.
Will the new notes increase the value of the cedi?
The introduction of new banknotes does not, by itself, increase the value of the Ghana cedi.
The exchange rate of the cedi against currencies such as the US dollar continues to depend on economic and foreign exchange market conditions.
The new series is instead aimed at improving the physical currency system, particularly its security, durability and management.
The Bank of Ghana has said the new notes will help provide “stronger protection against counterfeiting, withstand prolonged circulation and support more efficient and cost-effective currency management.”
What does it mean for businesses?
Businesses, banks, retailers and other cash-handling institutions will have to adjust to the circulation of the new notes alongside the existing ones.
However, because the old notes will remain legal tender, businesses will not have to immediately replace all existing cash in their possession.
The longer-term benefit for the financial system is expected to come from notes that last longer and are more difficult to counterfeit.
What happens to damaged notes?
The Bank of Ghana has also used the introduction of the new series to renew its call for better handling of the cedi.
Dr Asiama has urged the public to stop crumpling, writing on and stapling banknotes, as well as using them for money bouquets, spraying and other forms of decoration.
“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 Bank of Ghana has historically replaced damaged and worn notes, making the cost of currency maintenance an important part of managing the cash system.
When will the new notes be introduced?
The Heritage Series is scheduled to be officially launched on November 3, 2026, at the Bank Square in Accra.
The new notes will then begin circulating alongside the existing Ghana cedi banknotes.
However, existing notes will remain valid, while the new series is intended to make Ghana’s currency more secure, durable and easier to manage.
For Ghanaians, the key point is that the Heritage Series changes the physical banknotes, not the value of money already held by the public.
ANAS/MA
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