The Bank of Ghana (BoG) is preparing to introduce a new generation of Ghana Cedi banknotes in November 2026, marking a major update to the designs that have been in circulation for more than two decades.
The new notes, known as the Heritage Series, are being introduced with enhanced security features, greater durability and designs intended to showcase aspects of Ghana’s history and identity.
The Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr Johnson Pandit Asiama, announced details of the new series in a statement on Thursday, September 24, 2026.
The notes will be introduced under the theme, “The Cedi, Our Future: Secure, Designed to Last.”
Here are seven things Ghanaians should know about the new cedi notes:
- They will be known as the Heritage Series
The new banknotes will officially be called the Heritage Series.
The BoG says the series is designed to combine modern currency technology with elements of Ghanaian history, culture and national identity.
The new designs will also feature Ghanaian iconographic elements and pay tribute to national heroes while reflecting the country’s aspirations for the future.
- Current cedi notes will remain valid
The introduction of the new notes does not mean Ghanaians have to immediately exchange their existing banknotes.
According to Dr Asiama, the current cedi notes will remain legal tender and will circulate alongside the Heritage Series.
“The introduction of the Heritage Series does not mean that the existing Ghana Cedi banknotes will cease to be legal tender,” he said.
The Governor also advised the public not to rush to withdraw or exchange existing notes simply because the new series is being introduced.
- The new notes will have stronger security features
Another major change will be the introduction of enhanced security features aimed at making the notes more difficult to counterfeit.
The BoG said the upgraded features are intended to provide stronger protection against counterfeit currency while improving the central bank’s ability to manage the currency.
The move comes as technology and security standards continue to evolve.
- The banknotes will be more durable
The Heritage Series has also been designed to withstand the demands of frequent and prolonged circulation.
The BoG expects the improved durability to help maintain the quality of banknotes for longer and reduce the frequency and cost associated with replacing damaged notes.
Dr Asiama said the modernisation was necessary to ensure that the currency remains “secure, durable and responsive to the changing needs of the economy.”
- The designs will showcase Ghana’s heritage
The new banknotes are expected to have modern designs inspired by Ghanaian cultural and historical elements.
According to the Governor, the Heritage Series provides an opportunity to celebrate the country’s heritage while recognising national figures.
“Each denomination is inspired by Ghanaian iconographic elements, telling the story of our past while looking confidently towards the future,” Dr Asiama said.
- Ghanaians are being urged to handle the notes properly
The BoG is also using the launch of the new series to renew its call for better handling of banknotes.
Dr Asiama urged individuals, businesses, traders and financial institutions to avoid crumpling, writing on or stapling the notes.
He also appealed to the public to stop using banknotes for decorative purposes, including money bouquets, spraying and showering.
Proper handling, the BoG says, will help preserve the quality of the currency, reduce replacement costs and improve currency management.
- The new notes will be launched on November 3
The Heritage Series will officially be launched on November 3, 2026, at the Bank Square in Accra.
The BoG says the introduction is part of efforts to modernise Ghana’s currency in response to changing circulation patterns, technological developments and evolving security requirements.
However, the public has no immediate need to replace existing cedi notes. The current banknotes will remain legal tender and continue to circulate alongside the new Heritage Series after its introduction.
