Ghana’s upgraded cedi banknotes, known as the Heritage Series, are expected to enter circulation in the first week of December 2026, approximately two weeks after their official launch on November 12.
Sources familiar with the rollout plan told JoyBusiness that the Bank of Ghana (BoG) intends to use the intervening period to educate the public on the new banknotes and allow commercial banks to prepare their cash-handling systems.
The phased introduction is expected to begin through commercial banks, which will serve as a key channel for distributing the upgraded notes.
Banks to Prepare ATMs and Cash-Handling Systems
The delay between the official launch and the circulation of the new notes is intended to give the public time to familiarise themselves with their enhanced security features.
Commercial banks will also need to calibrate their automated teller machines (ATMs) and other cash-handling systems to recognise and process the upgraded banknotes.
JoyBusiness understands that the central bank is keen to avoid a repeat of challenges encountered during the introduction of the GH¢200 denomination, when some ATMs were unable to accept the note because they had not been properly calibrated.
The Bank of Ghana is therefore expected to work with commercial banks to ensure a smoother rollout of the Heritage Series.
Existing Banknotes to Remain Legal Tender
The Bank of Ghana has assured the public that existing cedi banknotes will remain legal tender and continue to circulate alongside the upgraded notes.
The central bank has urged the public not to rush to exchange or withdraw existing banknotes solely because of the introduction of the Heritage Series.
“There is no need for the public to rush to exchange or withdraw existing notes solely because of the introduction of the Heritage Series,” the bank advised.
The upgraded series will cover the GH¢1, GH¢5, GH¢10, GH¢20, GH¢50, GH¢100 and GH¢200 denominations. It will also mark the reintroduction of the GH¢2 banknote.
The exercise will not affect coins.
Officials have emphasised that the upgrade is not a redenomination and will not alter the value of the Ghana cedi.
Counterfeiting Concerns Drive Currency Upgrade
The planned introduction of the Heritage Series comes amid concerns over counterfeiting and the need to strengthen the security of existing banknotes.
Sources indicate that the Bank of Ghana is also responding to changes in currency usage, technological advancements and increasingly sophisticated security standards.
According to the central bank, periodic upgrades are necessary to ensure that banknotes remain secure, durable and responsive to the changing needs of the economy.
The exercise is expected to improve currency management while strengthening public confidence in the cedi.
Enhanced Security Features and New Designs
The Heritage Series will feature enhanced security measures, improved durability and updated designs reflecting Ghana’s heritage, culture and national aspirations.
The Bank of Ghana says the upgraded notes are designed to provide stronger protection against counterfeiting while withstanding prolonged circulation.
The new features are also expected to support more efficient and cost-effective currency management.
The designs will honour national heroes and celebrate Ghanaian culture and identity, with each denomination incorporating recognisable national imagery.
November 12 Launch to Proceed Despite 2027 Budget Presentation
JoyBusiness understands that the Bank of Ghana intends to proceed with the November 12 launch despite its coincidence with the presentation of the 2027 Budget Statement and Economic Policy to Parliament.
Sources say international guests, including representatives of the banknote printing house, had already made travel and accommodation arrangements before the budget presentation date was announced.
These commitments have reportedly made it difficult to reschedule the launch.
President John Mahama is expected to lead the ceremony, which is scheduled to begin at 10 a.m.
Organisers are reportedly working to conclude the event in time for Finance Minister Dr Ato Forson to present the 2027 Budget to Parliament later that day.
