Ghana Introduces Smaller, More Durable Banknotes to Curb Counterfeiting

 

On November 12, 2026, the Bank of Ghana officially introduced the Heritage Series, a new generation of smaller, more durable cedi banknotes.

Launched in Accra in the presence of President John Dramani Mahama, the redesigned currency aims to combat counterfeiting, endure frequent daily use, and update Ghana’s cash infrastructure.

The new notes are scheduled to enter general circulation on December 1, 2026. They will be used alongside existing banknotes, which will remain legal tender. Designed in smaller, more standardized dimensions inspired by international currencies, the notes—including the GH₵200 denomination—will fit more easily into wallets.

Rather than adopting polymer, the central bank selected reinforced cotton paper designed to withstand Ghana’s climate and extend the service life of notes in frequent circulation.

The series replaces core designs that have been in use for more than 20 years with enhanced visual and machine-readable security features. It also includes improved tactile markings and a dedicated Cedi mobile app to help visually impaired people and the wider public identify genuine banknotes.

The currency’s face value is unchanged, and citizens do not need to rush to banks to exchange their existing cash.

The redesign covers all eight existing denominations—GH₵1, GH₵2, GH₵5, GH₵10, GH₵20, GH₵50, GH₵100, and GH₵200—and formally reintroduces the GH₵2 note. For the first time, traditional Adinkra symbols feature throughout the series alongside prominent national figures and landmarks.

In addition to the physical redesign, Bank of Ghana Governor Dr. Johnson Asiama announced that the central bank is preparing a new Currency Act to replace the 1964 legislation. The proposed law would introduce tougher penalties for counterfeiting and currency mutilation.

Before the December rollout, officials have also begun a public education campaign urging Ghanaians not to write on, crumple, spray, or turn the new notes into decorative money bouquets.