Ghana’s Central Bank expects Heritage Series banknotes in circulation by December

The Bank of Ghana announced plans to roll out its upgraded cedi currency, known as the Heritage Series, following a launch event scheduled for November 12, 2026. The new banknotes could be in circulation about two weeks later, starting in the first week of December. This phased distribution through commercial banking channels will allow for public education and technical preparations across the financial sector.

The central bank aims to familiarize citizens with the upgraded currency features before widespread distribution. Commercial banks need time to calibrate automated teller machines and cash-handling systems to recognize and process the new notes, avoiding past operational issues like the GH¢200 note's ATM failures. Existing cedi banknotes will remain legal tender, allowing citizens not to rush to exchange their current holdings.

The Heritage Series includes denominations of GH¢1, GH¢5, GH¢10, GH¢20, GH¢50, GH¢100, and GH¢200, as well as the reintroduction of the GH¢2 note. The increased security features address growing concerns about counterfeiting, necessitated by technological advancements and evolving security standards. The banknotes' design incorporates national historical figures and cultural imagery, enhancing the lifespan of physical notes while lowering overall currency management costs.

The Bank of Ghana maintained the November 12 launch schedule despite it overlapping with the 2027 Budget presentation, with President John Mahama set to unveil the currency at 10:00 a.m. The dual-circulation strategy ensures market continuity while financial institutions upgrade their systems, preserving public confidence in the physical currency and facilitating seamless daily cash transactions.