Heritage Series banknotes could hit circulation weeks after November 12 launch

Ghana’s upgraded cedi banknotes, known as the Heritage Series, could enter circulation about two weeks after their official November 12, 2026 launch. Sources familiar with the rollout plan told JoyBusiness that the Bank of Ghana intends to allow time for public education and commercial banks’ preparations before issuing the notes. Sources indicate that a phased introduction through commercial banks could begin in the first week of December.

Reasons The interval between the launch and circulation is intended to help the public understand the notes’ enhanced features. Commercial banks will also need time to calibrate their cash-handling systems and automated teller machines to recognise and process the upgraded banknotes. The banks will serve as a major channel for introducing the Heritage Series into circulation.

JoyBusiness understands that the central bank wants to avoid the difficulties experienced when it introduced the GH¢200 note, when some ATMs could not accept the denomination because they had not been calibrated. What will happen to current notes in circulation? The Bank of Ghana has assured the public that existing banknotes will remain legal tender and circulate alongside 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 public can continue using existing banknotes alongside the upgraded versions. The Heritage 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 note.

The upgrade does not include coins. Officials have stressed that the exercise is not a redenomination and will not change the value of the Ghana cedi. Timing Sources say concerns about counterfeiting existing notes have driven the push for enhanced security features. The Bank of Ghana has also pointed to changes in currency use, advances in technology and increasingly sophisticated security standards as reasons for modernising the notes.

According to the bank, periodic upgrades are necessary to keep banknotes secure, durable and responsive to the economy’s changing needs. Features The Heritage Series will incorporate enhanced security features, improved durability, and updated designs that reflect Ghana’s heritage and aspirations. The bank says the notes are designed to offer stronger protection against counterfeiting and withstand prolonged circulation.

They also aim to support more efficient, cost-effective currency management. The designs will honour national heroes and celebrate Ghana’s culture and identity, with each denomination drawing on recognisable Ghanaian imagery. Launch date and clash with 2027 Budget presentation JoyBusiness understands that the Bank of Ghana plans to keep the November 12 launch date despite its coincidence with the 2027 Budget presentation.

Sources say international guests, including representatives of the banknote printing house, had booked flights and accommodation before the budget presentation date was announced. These arrangements made it difficult to change the launch date. President John Mahama is expected to lead the launch, planned for 10 a.m. Sources say organisers hope to conclude proceedings in time for Finance Minister Dr Ato Forson to present the budget to Parliament later that day.