Bank of Ghana launches Cedi Heritage Series, new notes enter circulation December 1, 2026

The Bank of Ghana has launched the Ghana Cedi Heritage Series, a new set of smaller banknotes with enhanced security features, as part of efforts to modernise its currency. The notes will enter circulation on December 1, 2026, replacing the existing designs.

The central bank officially launched the series on Thursday, November 12, 2026. It said the redesigned notes have improved durability, more portable sizes and stronger security features. The aim is to make cash transactions more convenient and strengthen confidence in the cedi.

Heritage and security in one note

The new notes feature historical personalities, national heroes, historic sites and monuments. They also carry Adinkra symbols, which are being introduced on Ghanaian banknotes for the first time. The Bank of Ghana said the redesign is meant to promote national pride and celebrate Ghanaian heritage.

Bank of Ghana Governor Dr Johnson Pandit Asiama said a country's currency represents more than a medium of exchange. He said it reflects the country's ability to manage monetary affairs through its own institutions. Asiama said the new series was an opportunity to strengthen the protection of the cedi, celebrate Ghanaian heritage and prepare the currency for changing demands. He added that confidence in a currency depends on "sound economic policies, effective institutions and the trust of the people who use it."

A long monetary history

The launch adds another stage to Ghana's monetary history. At independence from Britain on March 6, 1957, Ghana was still using the West African pound, shillings and pence issued by the West African Currency Board. The Bank of Ghana introduced the Ghana pound on July 14, 1958, replacing the West African pound.

In July 1965, Ghana introduced the cedi and pesewa to replace the pound system. The first cedi banknotes featured the portrait of Ghana's first president, Kwame Nkrumah. After Nkrumah's government was overthrown in 1966, the New Cedi was introduced in February 1967, with his portrait removed from the banknotes.

Further redesigns followed in 1972, 1979 and the 1980s, reflecting changes in Ghana's political history, economic activities and national identity. Between 1996 and 2006, the country introduced smaller banknotes and higher denominations as inflation increased. A major redenomination in 2007 introduced the modern Ghana cedi. Later additions included commemorative GH¢2 and GH¢5 notes. In 2019, the Bank of Ghana introduced upgraded banknotes, including GH¢100 and GH¢200 denominations.

What it means for cash users

The Heritage Series combines smaller banknote sizes and improved security features with designs intended to showcase Ghana's history and cultural identity. For Nigerian businesses and travellers with Ghana exposure, the date to note is December 1, 2026, when the new notes begin circulating and replace the existing designs.