The Bank of Ghana (BoG) is set to introduce an upgraded series of Ghana Cedi banknotes in November 2026, more than two decades after the core designs of the current notes were introduced.
Known as the Heritage Series, the new banknotes are expected to feature enhanced security features, improved durability and modern designs reflecting Ghana’s heritage and identity.
Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr Johnson Pandit Asiama, outlined the key features of the new series in a statement on Thursday, September 24, 2026.
Here are seven things Ghanaians should know about the new cedi notes:
1. The new notes will be called the Heritage Series
The upgraded banknotes will be known as the Heritage Series and will be introduced under the theme: “The Cedi, Our Future: Secure, Designed to Last.”
According to the BoG, the series is intended to combine modern currency features with elements that reflect Ghana’s history, culture and identity.
2. Existing cedi notes will remain valid
The introduction of the Heritage Series does not mean that the current Ghana Cedi banknotes will immediately become invalid.
Dr Asiama said the existing notes will remain legal tender and will circulate alongside the new notes.
“The introduction of the Heritage Series does not mean that the existing Ghana Cedi banknotes will cease to be legal tender,” he said.
He added that there was “no need for the public to rush to exchange or withdraw existing notes” simply because the new series was being introduced.
EXPLAINER: BoG to introduce upgraded cedi notes in November – Here's what changes
3. The new notes will have enhanced security features
One of the key reasons for upgrading the banknotes is to strengthen their protection against counterfeiting.
The BoG said the Heritage Series will incorporate enhanced security features designed to provide stronger protection against counterfeit currency.
The new features are also intended to support more effective currency management as technology and security standards continue to evolve.
4. The notes are designed to last longer
The BoG said the new banknotes will have improved durability to withstand the demands of prolonged circulation.
The central bank said this should help preserve the quality of the notes and reduce the frequency and cost of replacing damaged banknotes.
Dr Asiama said the modernisation was necessary to ensure that the currency remains “secure, durable and responsive to the changing needs of the economy.”
5. The designs will reflect Ghana’s heritage
The Heritage Series will also introduce modern designs inspired by Ghanaian iconographic elements.
According to the Governor, the new designs will provide an opportunity to honour national heroes and celebrate Ghana’s heritage, culture and identity.
“Each denomination is inspired by Ghanaian iconographic elements, telling the story of our past while looking confidently towards the future,” Dr Asiama said.
6. The BoG wants Ghanaians to handle the notes properly
The central bank has also used the introduction of the Heritage Series to renew its appeal for better handling of banknotes.
Dr Asiama urged Ghanaians, businesses, traders and financial institutions to avoid crumpling, writing on or stapling banknotes.
He also asked the public to desist from using banknotes for decorative purposes, including money bouquets, showering and spraying.
According to him, proper handling will help preserve the quality of the currency, reduce replacement costs and support efficient currency management.
7. The Heritage Series will be launched on November 3
The new cedi notes will officially be launched on November 3, 2026, at the Bank Square in Accra.
The BoG says the introduction forms part of efforts to modernise the country’s currency in response to changes in currency circulation, technological advances and evolving security standards.
For the public, the immediate implication is that there is no need to replace existing cedi notes ahead of the launch. Current notes will remain legal tender and will continue to circulate alongside the Heritage Series.
Bank of Ghana to Introduce New Cedi Notes in November: Here’s What Will Change
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