Heritage Series BankNotes to enter circulation December 1 – BoG Governor

The Bank of Ghana (BoG) is set to introduce its upgraded Ghana Cedi Heritage Series into circulation on December 1, 2026, with the current banknotes remaining legal tender. Governor Dr Johnson Pandit Asiama revealed that the new banknotes boast enhanced security features, increased durability and more compact sizes. During the launch at Bank Square in Accra on November 12, 2026, he emphasized that the Heritage Series would bolster currency protection and convenience in everyday transactions.

The new banknotes will feature national heroes, historic sites, monuments and Adinkra symbols, symbolizing Ghana's rich heritage. Asiama highlighted that the improved security measures would deter counterfeiting and enable easy identification of authentic notes. Additionally, the upgraded durability would make the banknotes more resilient to frequent use and Ghana's climate, potentially extending their lifespan in circulation.

Contrary to immediate withdrawal of the existing currency, the new series will coexist with the current banknotes. The Bank of Ghana is also drafting a new Currency Act to replace the existing legislation, which is anticipated to strengthen penalties for counterfeiting and offer clearer procedures for combating counterfeit notes and damaging physical currency.

Moreover, the Bank is developing an in-house Enterprise Currency Operations Management Software (ECOMS) to streamline communication between the central bank and commercial banks in managing currency operations. To further enhance the public's understanding of the new currency, the BoG is launching a Cedi App and conducting nationwide education campaigns in local languages to assist Ghanaians in recognizing genuine banknotes and responsibly managing the currency.

As digital payments reshape the financial sector, Asiama stressed that physical cash would remain a vital aspect of Ghana's monetary resilience, especially during technical failures, cyber incidents or other disruptions. The Bank remains dedicated to modernising payment systems while maintaining accessible and dependable physical cash services.

This launch is part of the Bank of Ghana's broader efforts to modernise currency management and bolster confidence in the cedi as the nation commemorates its 70th anniversary on March 4, 2027.