Ghana Introduces New Smaller Banknotes to Combat Counterfeiting

On November 12, 2026, Ghana officially launched a new series of banknotes called the “Heritage Series” at the Bank of Ghana in Accra. These smaller and more durable banknotes will start circulating on December 1, alongside the current notes, which will still be accepted as legal tender.

The new banknotes come with improved anti-counterfeiting features and designs that celebrate Ghana’s national heritage. Bank of Ghana Governor Johnson Asiama noted that the redesign was necessary as some existing banknote designs have been in use for over twenty years, while counterfeiting technology has advanced significantly.

Made from reinforced cotton paper, the new notes are built to endure frequent handling and Ghana’s tropical climate, which helps reduce wear and tear. They also include enhanced tactile markings to assist people with visual impairments in identifying different denominations. President John Mahama highlighted that the new notes are smaller and easier to manage, making everyday transactions more convenient.

The Heritage Series retains eight denominations, ranging from one to 200 cedis, and marks the return of the two-cedi banknote. Importantly, this redesign does not change the value of the currency or involve a redenomination.

In addition to security improvements, the new designs honor notable Ghanaian figures such as former UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan and the nation’s first president, Kwame Nkrumah, along with historic landmarks and monuments. While Ghana is expanding its digital payment systems, the central bank emphasized the continued importance of physical cash, citing risks like cyberattacks and natural disasters that could disrupt electronic payment methods.

The Bank of Ghana is also working on new legislation to replace the 1964 currency act, which will strengthen measures against counterfeiting and the misuse of banknotes.