Bank of Ghana to Launch 'Heritage Series' Banknotes in November 2026 with Enhanced Security and Durability

The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has announced the official launch of the "Heritage Series," a new and upgraded collection of Ghana cedi banknotes, scheduled for November 3, 2026. This initiative marks the first major update to the national currency's design in over two decades, aimed at modernizing the cedi while celebrating Ghana's cultural identity. Governor Dr. Johnson Pandit Asiama revealed the plan during the 132nd Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) press conference, emphasizing that the new series will encompass all current denominations, ranging from GH₵1 to GH₵200. The launch is expected to take place at the Bank Square in Accra, signifying a milestone in the nation's financial history.

The Heritage Series is engineered with cutting-edge security features to combat counterfeiting and improve the physical durability of the currency. Despite recent public speculation and rumors, Director of Currency Management Dominic Owusu clarified that the central bank will not be introducing higher denominations, such as a GH₵500 note, as part of this rollout. Furthermore, the BoG has decided to retain reinforced cotton as the primary material for the banknotes rather than switching to polymer. This decision was based on Ghana's tropical climate; the high humidity and warm temperatures make cotton a more suitable and resilient medium for local circulation, ensuring the notes remain functional and clean for longer periods.

A critical component of the rollout strategy is the planned co-circulation of the Heritage Series with existing banknotes. The Bank of Ghana has assured the public, businesses, and financial institutions that current cedi notes will remain valid legal tender and will not be immediately withdrawn. Governor Asiama urged citizens not to rush to exchange their old notes, as a detailed transition and public education program will be communicated well ahead of the November launch. This dual-circulation approach is intended to provide a seamless transition and allow the public sufficient time to familiarize themselves with the new designs and security elements.

In tandem with the upcoming launch, the BoG has intensified its call for better currency handling under its "Clean Note Policy." Both Governor Asiama and Dominic Owusu have urged Ghanaians to treat banknotes with care to reduce the substantial costs associated with replacing worn-out or damaged currency. The public is advised against practices such as crumpling, writing on, or using banknotes for decorative purposes. By maintaining the quality of the notes, the central bank aims to minimize unnecessary printing expenses and preserve the cedi's role as a symbol of national sovereignty and pride. As the November 2026 launch approaches, the BoG remains committed to ensuring the cedi remains a secure and trusted medium of exchange in an evolving technological landscape.