Ghana Launches New Cedi Heritage Series: Meet the Eight Personalities, Their Histories, Security Features and the Story Behind Every Note

The Bank of Ghana has unveiled the Ghana Cedi Heritage Series, featuring eight prominent Ghanaian personalities, historic landmarks and Adinkra symbols. The new notes will enter circulation on December 1, 2026, while existing notes remain legal tender.

By Ferdinand Ellis
Lecturer | Curriculum Specialist | Researcher | Education Blogger | Education Policy Analyst

Article Information

Fact Check and Editorial Review

The Bank of Ghana officially unveiled the Ghana Cedi Heritage Series on Thursday, November 12, 2026, at Bank Square in Accra. The new notes retain the eight existing denominations, from GH¢1 to GH¢200, and introduce redesigned portraits, landmarks and Adinkra symbols.

The new notes are scheduled to enter circulation on December 1, 2026. Existing banknotes will remain legal tender and circulate alongside the new series during the transition. Ghanaians are therefore not required to exchange their existing money immediately.

The eight personalities featured are Agnes Oforiwa Tagoe-Quarcoopome, Cardinal Peter Poreku Dery, Dr James Emman Kwegyir Aggrey, Justice Annie Jiagge, Dr Ephraim Amu, Theodosia Salome Okoh, Kofi Annan and Dr Kwame Nkrumah.

The Bank of Ghana has described the new notes as more durable, more portable and equipped with enhanced security features. Its Governor, Dr Johnson Pandit Asiama, said the improved material is intended to withstand Ghana’s climatic conditions and the frequent handling associated with everyday transactions.

Editorial clarification: The Big Six are no longer presented together as a collective portrait on the redesigned series. However, Kwame Nkrumah, one of the Big Six, remains represented individually on the GH¢200 note. The other five are not among the eight personalities selected for the new series.

Key Takeaways

• The Bank of Ghana launched the Ghana Cedi Heritage Series on November 12, 2026.
• The new notes will begin circulating on December 1, 2026.
• Existing cedi notes remain legal tender and will circulate alongside the new notes.
• The series retains eight denominations: GH¢1, GH¢2, GH¢5, GH¢10, GH¢20, GH¢50, GH¢100 and GH¢200.
• Eight Ghanaian personalities are recognised through the new designs.
• The notes feature historic landmarks and Adinkra symbols.
• The redesigned currency uses reinforced cotton paper and is intended to last longer.
• A Bank of Ghana Cedi App and nationwide public education campaign are planned to help the public understand the notes and identify genuine currency.

In Brief: Who Is on Each New Ghana Cedi Note?

Introduction: Ghana Puts Its History in the Hands of the Public

Every day, millions of Ghanaians handle cedi notes without necessarily considering the history behind the currency. A market woman receives money from a customer, a student pays for transport, a teacher buys food, a trader settles a supplier and a family makes its daily purchases. The cedi moves through the hands of people from different backgrounds, regions and occupations.

Yet a national currency carries more than monetary value. It can represent a country’s political journey, cultural identity, historical memory and aspirations.

That idea is at the centre of the new Ghana Cedi Heritage Series, unveiled by President John Dramani Mahama at the Bank of Ghana headquarters in Accra on November 12, 2026.

The redesigned notes bring together personalities who contributed to Ghana’s commercial, religious, educational, judicial, artistic, diplomatic and political development. They also feature historic buildings, national institutions and Adinkra symbols.

The redesign is a significant moment in the evolution of Ghana’s currency. It gives the country an opportunity to reconsider the people and institutions it chooses to honour through one of its most widely used national symbols.

The question is no longer simply how much a note is worth. It is also what the note represents.

What Is the Ghana Cedi Heritage Series?

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The Ghana Cedi Heritage Series is the Bank of Ghana’s upgraded family of banknotes, designed to combine improved currency protection with national historical and cultural representation.

The launch theme is “The Cedi, Our Future: Secure & Designed to Last.”

According to the Bank of Ghana Governor, the redesign has three major objectives.

First, it is intended to strengthen the security of the cedi and make counterfeiting more difficult. Second, it seeks to improve the durability and convenience of the notes. Third, it aims to bring Ghana’s historical and cultural heritage into everyday economic life.

The new series retains the existing eight denominations. It does not introduce a GH¢500 note or change the face value of the currency.

The inclusion of personalities, landmarks and Adinkra symbols gives each denomination a distinct historical theme. This creates a connection between the physical note and the national story it is intended to communicate.

The Bank of Ghana has also indicated that the redesign forms part of wider efforts to modernise currency management and strengthen public confidence in the national currency.

The Eight Personalities on the New Ghana Cedi Notes

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The most discussed feature of the new currency is the selection of eight Ghanaian personalities. Their contributions span commerce, religion, education, justice, music, national identity, diplomacy and the struggle for independence.

GH¢1: Agnes Oforiwa Tagoe-Quarcoopome – The Face of Commerce

Theme: Commerce

The GH¢1 note honours Agnes Oforiwa Tagoe-Quarcoopome, a pioneering Ghanaian market woman associated with Makola Market in Accra.

Her selection is significant because it recognises the contribution of ordinary commercial activity and women’s enterprise to Ghana’s economic development.

Agnes Oforiwa Tagoe-Quarcoopome is remembered as a prominent trader and market leader. Reports about her life describe her as one of the pioneering women in Ghana’s commercial history and identify her as the first market woman to open a bank account with the then Standard Bank of West Africa.

She is also remembered for supporting Kwame Nkrumah’s independence campaign. Her story connects the world of market trading with the wider political and economic history of Ghana.

For generations, women have played a central role in Ghana’s informal economy. They have financed households, organised market associations, supported agricultural distribution and maintained trading networks linking rural producers with urban consumers.

Markets such as Makola have become important centres of economic activity. They provide livelihoods for traders, transport operators, food suppliers, artisans and other workers.

By placing Agnes on the GH¢1 note, the Bank of Ghana recognises the contribution of women in commerce and the role of market activity in sustaining the national economy.

The reverse side of the note features market women and imagery associated with Makola Market. The accompanying Adinkra symbol is Bese Saka, which represents abundance, wealth, unity and commercial prosperity.

The choice sends a message that national development is also built through the daily work of traders, entrepreneurs and informal-sector workers.

GH¢2: Cardinal Peter Poreku Dery – Religious Freedom and Spiritual Leadership

Theme: Religious Freedom

The GH¢2 note features Cardinal Peter Poreku Dery, one of Ghana’s most prominent Catholic religious leaders.

Peter Poreku Dery was born on May 10, 1918, at Zemuopare, near Ko in the present-day Upper West Region of Ghana. His early life was closely connected with the Catholic mission in northern Ghana.

He completed his teacher training before entering priestly formation. He was ordained a Catholic priest on February 11, 1951.

His early work involved pastoral ministry, education and community development. He served in several Catholic communities and played an important role in the growth of the Church in northern Ghana.

In 1960, he became the first Bishop of Wa after the creation of the Diocese of Wa. He later served as Bishop of Tamale and became the first Archbishop of Tamale when the diocese was elevated to an archdiocese in 1977.

In March 2006, Pope Benedict XVI elevated him to the College of Cardinals. This made him Ghana’s first cardinal.

Cardinal Dery died on March 6, 2008.

His work extended beyond church administration. He supported the establishment of schools, religious institutions and community structures. His leadership helped strengthen Catholic education and religious organisation in northern Ghana.

The GH¢2 note also features the Larabanga Mosque, one of Ghana’s best-known historic Islamic structures. Located in the Savannah Region, the mosque is widely recognised for its distinctive Sudano-Sahelian architectural tradition and its place in the history of Islam in Ghana.

The pairing of a Catholic cardinal with a historic mosque is an important feature of the design. It presents Ghana’s religious heritage through two major faith traditions and encourages reflection on religious coexistence.

The accompanying Adinkra symbol is Nyame Dua, associated with God’s presence, protection and spiritual guidance.

The denomination therefore carries a message about religious heritage, freedom of worship and the importance of peaceful coexistence.

GH¢5: Dr James Emman Kwegyir Aggrey – Education and Intellectual Development

Theme: Education

The GH¢5 note celebrates Dr James Emman Kwegyir Aggrey, popularly known as J.E.K. Aggrey, an influential Ghanaian educationist, clergyman and intellectual.

Aggrey was born on October 18, 1875, at Anomabu in the Central Region, then part of the Gold Coast.

He received his early education in Methodist mission schools before travelling to the United States in 1898 for further studies. He attended Livingstone College in North Carolina, where he graduated in 1902.

He later became a professor at Livingstone College and developed a reputation as an African intellectual who advocated education, mutual respect and the advancement of African people.

Aggrey became associated with the Phelps-Stokes educational commissions, which examined educational conditions in Africa. Through these activities, he travelled to different parts of the continent and contributed to discussions about the future of African education.

He is widely remembered for his belief in the transformative power of education. His famous illustration of the piano, in which the black and white keys are both needed to produce music, has remained part of Ghana’s educational and social discourse.

Aggrey also became closely associated with Achimota School, whose establishment reflected the ambition to provide a new model of education in the Gold Coast.

The reverse of the GH¢5 note features the clock-tower building of Achimota School. This connection between Aggrey and Achimota makes the denomination particularly significant for Ghana’s educational history.

The accompanying Adinkra symbol, Nea Onnim No Sua A, Ohu, conveys the idea that a person who does not know can learn through education.

For teachers, students, lecturers and education policymakers, the selection of Aggrey is a reminder of the importance of knowledge, intellectual development and the role of education in national transformation.

His appearance on the new note also gives the currency an educational dimension. It encourages younger generations to learn about the people who contributed to the development of formal education in Ghana.

GH¢10: Justice Annie Ruth Jiagge – Justice, Equality and Women’s Rights

Theme: Justice and Equality

The GH¢10 note honours Justice Annie Ruth Jiagge, one of the most distinguished women in Ghana’s legal and judicial history.

She was born Annie Ruth Baeta on October 7, 1918, in Lomé, then part of French Togoland. She grew up in a family with strong educational and religious influences.

She attended Achimota College, where she obtained a teacher’s certificate in 1937. She initially pursued a career in education and became a teacher and headmistress.

Her professional interests later shifted towards law. She studied at the London School of Economics and was awarded an LLB degree in 1949. She was called to the Bar at Lincoln’s Inn in 1950 before returning to Ghana to practise law.

Her judicial career developed through several levels of the court system. She served as a magistrate, a Circuit Court judge, a High Court judge and a Justice of the Court of Appeal. She later became President of the Court of Appeal.

She is remembered as the first Ghanaian woman to become a High Court judge and the first woman judge in the Commonwealth.

Her contribution was not limited to the courtroom. Justice Jiagge was also an influential advocate for women’s rights and international gender equality.

She played a significant role in the work of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women. She contributed to the development of the international declaration on the elimination of discrimination against women and served in leadership positions within women’s organisations.

She also chaired Ghana’s National Council on Women and Development, which worked to advance women’s participation in national development.

Justice Jiagge died in Accra on June 12, 1996.

The reverse side of the GH¢10 note features the Supreme Court of Ghana and the Martyrs of the Rule of Law monument. The Adinkra symbol Epa, associated with handcuffs, represents law, justice and the enforcement of legal principles.

Her selection is a reminder that the development of a democratic society requires fair institutions, equal opportunities and respect for the rights of citizens.

It also recognises the contribution of women to Ghana’s legal and constitutional development.

GH¢20: Dr Ephraim Amu – Music, Culture and the Arts

Theme: Arts and Entertainment

The GH¢20 note features Dr Ephraim Amu, one of Ghana’s most influential composers, musicologists and cultural figures.

He was born on September 13, 1899, at Peki Avetile in the Volta Region. He received his early education at Peki Blengo before pursuing further studies and training that shaped his career in music and education.

Amu became a major figure in the development of Ghanaian art music. He worked to incorporate African musical traditions, indigenous instruments and local languages into formal musical composition.

He is particularly remembered for composing the Twi patriotic song Yɛn Ara Asaase Ni, which has become one of Ghana’s best-known patriotic compositions.

The song expresses attachment to the homeland and the responsibility of citizens to value and protect their country.

Amu’s musical work extended beyond patriotic songs. He composed and arranged several pieces that drew on African rhythms, indigenous musical structures and cultural experiences.

He also contributed to music education and the documentation of Ghanaian musical traditions.

The reverse side of the GH¢20 note features the National Theatre in Accra, an important national centre for performing arts, drama, music and cultural presentation.

The accompanying Adinkra symbol is Dono, associated with the traditional talking drum and the cultural significance of music and communication.

The choice of Amu is important because it recognises music as part of Ghana’s intellectual and cultural heritage. It also acknowledges the contribution of composers, performers, cultural educators and artists to national identity.

His presence on the note gives recognition to the role of the arts in preserving language, history and collective memory.

GH¢50: Theodosia Salome Okoh – Nationalism and the Ghanaian Flag

Theme: Nationalism

The GH¢50 note honours Theodosia Salome Okoh, the Ghanaian artist and designer who created the national flag.

She was born on June 13, 1922, and became one of the country’s most recognised female artists and public figures.

Her most enduring contribution was the design of Ghana’s national flag, which was adopted when the country attained independence on March 6, 1957.

The flag’s colours carry important national meanings.

• Red represents the blood and sacrifice of those who struggled for freedom.
• Gold represents Ghana’s mineral wealth.
• Green represents the country’s forests and natural resources.
• The black star represents African freedom and unity.

The flag became one of the most recognisable symbols of Ghana’s sovereignty and independence.

Okoh’s contribution also extended to sports administration. She served as President of the Ghana Hockey Association and became an important figure in the development of hockey in the country.

She died on April 19, 2015.

The reverse of the GH¢50 note features Jubilee House, the official seat of the President of Ghana. The building represents the country’s contemporary political institutions and the exercise of executive authority.

The accompanying Adinkra symbol is Fawohodie, which represents freedom, independence and emancipation.

The placement of Okoh on the GH¢50 note recognises the importance of national symbols and the contribution of women to the country’s history.

It also provides an opportunity to remind younger Ghanaians about the meaning of the national flag and the history behind its design.

GH¢100: Kofi Annan – Peace, Diplomacy and International Leadership

Theme: Peace

The GH¢100 note features Kofi Atta Annan, one of Ghana’s most internationally recognised diplomats.

Annan was born on April 8, 1938, in Kumasi. He received his early education in Ghana before pursuing further studies in the United States and Europe.

He studied economics at Macalester College in Minnesota and later obtained a Master of Science degree in Management from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

Annan joined the United Nations system in 1962. Over the years, he held several positions within the organisation, working in different countries and departments.

His career included assignments with the World Health Organization, the Economic Commission for Africa, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees and other UN institutions.

He became the seventh Secretary-General of the United Nations in January 1997 and served until December 2006.

Annan was the first person from sub-Saharan Africa to hold the position of UN Secretary-General.

During his tenure, he promoted international cooperation, human rights, development, institutional reform and peacekeeping. He also encouraged stronger partnerships between the United Nations, governments, civil society and the private sector.

In 2001, he and the United Nations jointly received the Nobel Peace Prize in recognition of their work towards a better organised and more peaceful world.

After leaving office, Annan continued to contribute to international diplomacy and peacebuilding. He established the Kofi Annan Foundation and remained active in international efforts to address conflict and promote democratic governance.

He died on August 18, 2018, in Bern, Switzerland.

The reverse of the GH¢100 note features the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre in Accra. The institution provides training and research for military personnel, police officers and civilians involved in peacekeeping and conflict management.

The accompanying Adinkra symbol is Bi Nka Bi, which conveys the message that one should not bite another. It represents peace, restraint, harmony and peaceful coexistence.

Annan’s appearance on the GH¢100 note recognises Ghana’s contribution to international diplomacy and the country’s role in global peacebuilding.

It also presents a Ghanaian whose influence extended well beyond the country’s borders.

GH¢200: Dr Kwame Nkrumah – Sovereignty and the Struggle for Independence

Theme: Sovereignty

The GH¢200 note features Osagyefo Dr Kwame Nkrumah, Ghana’s first Prime Minister and first President.

Nkrumah was born on September 21, 1909, at Nkroful in the Western Region, then part of the Gold Coast.

He trained as a teacher and worked in the education sector before travelling abroad for further studies. He attended Lincoln University in the United States and pursued additional studies in the United States and Britain.

His political activities developed during a period when the Gold Coast was under British colonial rule. He returned to the country in 1947 and became General Secretary of the United Gold Coast Convention.

Following disagreements within the movement, he established the Convention People’s Party in 1949.

Nkrumah’s political campaign for self-government gathered national support. He was imprisoned by the colonial authorities in 1950, but the CPP won the 1951 elections. He was subsequently released and became Leader of Government Business.

He became Prime Minister in 1952 and led the country to independence on March 6, 1957.

When Ghana became a republic in 1960, Nkrumah became the country’s first President.

His government pursued industrialisation, infrastructure development, education expansion and Pan-African cooperation. He also played a major role in the establishment of the Organisation of African Unity in 1963.

His presidency remains a subject of historical and political debate. His government was overthrown in a military coup in February 1966 while he was on a state visit abroad. He spent his final years in exile and died in Bucharest, Romania, on April 27, 1972.

The reverse of the GH¢200 note features the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park in Accra, which houses his mausoleum and other monuments commemorating his contribution to Ghana’s independence.

The Adinkra symbol is Adinkrahene, often described as the chief of Adinkra symbols. It represents leadership, authority, greatness and charisma.

His appearance on the highest denomination is symbolically important. It places Ghana’s first President at the top of the new currency series and links the country’s monetary identity with the historical achievement of political independence.

The Historic Buildings and Landmarks on the New Notes

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The Heritage Series does not rely on portraits alone. The reverse sides of the notes feature landmarks and institutions that connect the personalities to important parts of Ghana’s national history.

These locations include:

The choice of these locations gives the notes a geographical and institutional dimension. They represent different aspects of Ghana’s development, from traditional markets and religious architecture to educational institutions, national monuments and international peacekeeping.

The selection also provides opportunities for public education. A student who encounters the image of Achimota School, for instance, may be encouraged to learn about the history of education in Ghana and the contribution of J.E.K. Aggrey.

Similarly, the appearance of the Larabanga Mosque can encourage interest in the history of Islam and architecture in northern Ghana.

The Adinkra Symbols and Their Meanings

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One of the distinctive features of the Heritage Series is the use of Adinkra symbols.

Adinkra symbols are visual representations of ideas, values, beliefs and philosophical concepts associated particularly with Akan cultural traditions. They have been used in textiles, architecture, crafts, ceremonial objects and other forms of cultural expression.

Their inclusion on the new notes gives the currency a stronger connection to Ghana’s cultural heritage.

The symbols associated with the denominations include:

These symbols give the notes an additional layer of meaning. They also create an opportunity for cultural education, particularly among young people who may encounter the symbols through daily transactions.

The Bank of Ghana’s decision to include them reflects an effort to combine modern currency design with cultural identity.

What Has Changed in the Physical Design and Quality of the Notes?

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The new notes introduce changes to the physical construction, dimensions and security design of Ghana’s currency.

Reinforced cotton paper

The new banknotes are printed on reinforced cotton paper. President John Dramani Mahama described the material as being designed to last longer than the existing notes.

The Bank of Ghana says the improved durability is intended to help the notes withstand frequent handling and Ghana’s climatic conditions.

This is important in an economy where cash remains widely used in markets, transport, retail transactions and everyday business.

Banknotes that wear out quickly have to be replaced. More durable notes could reduce the frequency of replacement and improve the efficiency of currency management.

Smaller and more portable dimensions

The redesigned notes are smaller and more portable than the existing series.

The Bank of Ghana says the changes are intended to make the notes easier to handle and carry. The size adjustment is particularly relevant to people who use wallets, purses and other small storage spaces.

Enhanced security features

The Bank of Ghana has confirmed that the Heritage Series incorporates enhanced security features intended to strengthen protection against counterfeiting.

The central bank has not, in the Governor’s launch remarks, provided a complete technical breakdown of every security feature on each denomination. The public should therefore rely on the Bank’s official educational materials and the Cedi App when learning how to authenticate the notes.

The Bank’s stated objective is to make genuine notes easier to identify and counterfeit notes more difficult to produce or circulate.

Improved accessibility

The Bank of Ghana has announced the Cedi App to help people learn about the new banknotes and their security features. The Governor also indicated that the application is intended to assist persons with visual impairments.

The differences in banknote sizes are another useful design consideration for people who may have difficulty distinguishing denominations by sight.

A nationwide public education campaign in major local languages is also planned.

The Cedi App: How the Public Will Learn About the New Notes

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The Bank of Ghana has introduced the Cedi App alongside the Heritage Series.

The application is intended to help the public understand the new notes, learn about their features and improve their ability to identify genuine currency.

It is also designed to support persons with visual impairments.

The application was launched at the ceremony by traditional leaders, including the Ga Mantse, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, and Togbe Afede XIV, the Agbogbomefia of the Asogli State.

The Bank’s decision to use a mobile application reflects the growing importance of digital tools in public education and financial literacy.

For the application to achieve its purpose, it will need to be accessible, easy to use and supported by public education in languages understood by people across the country.

Ghanaians should obtain the application through the official Apple App Store or Google Play Store listing and avoid downloading applications from suspicious links.

 A Brief History of Ghana’s Currency: From Cowries to the Cedi

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The introduction of the Heritage Series provides an opportunity to revisit the history of Ghana’s currency.

Before the cedi became the national currency, the Gold Coast used different forms of money and exchange systems.

Cowries and traditional forms of exchange

Cowrie shells were historically used as a medium of exchange in parts of West Africa. They circulated alongside other forms of payment and were important in regional commercial networks.

The Akan name for the cedi is associated with the word for cowrie shells. The name therefore connects the modern currency to older systems of trade and exchange.

Gold dust also played an important role in the commercial history of the Gold Coast. It was weighed using specially designed brass weights and used in transactions.

These traditional systems formed part of the economic history from which modern Ghana emerged.

The introduction of the cedi in 1965

Following independence in 1957, Ghana continued to develop its monetary and financial institutions.

The Bank of Ghana had been established in 1957 and became central to the country’s monetary administration.

In July 1965, Ghana introduced the cedi as its national decimal currency, replacing the Ghanaian pound. The cedi was divided into 100 pesewas.

This change represented an important stage in the country’s effort to establish its own monetary identity.

The 1967 currency change

In 1967, Ghana introduced a new cedi following the overthrow of Nkrumah’s government.

The new currency was exchanged at a rate of one new cedi to 1.2 old cedis. The change formed part of the country’s monetary history during a period of political and economic transition.

The 2007 redenomination

One of the most significant changes to Ghana’s currency occurred in July 2007 when the government introduced the Ghana cedi following a redenomination exercise.

The redenomination removed four zeros from the old currency.

The conversion was:

10,000 old Ghana cedis = GH¢1.00

The exercise was intended to simplify transactions, accounting, pricing and the handling of large monetary figures.

It did not mean that the purchasing power of people’s money automatically increased. It was a change in the unit of account.

The redenomination also introduced the current family of denominations that has since been adjusted through later currency upgrades.

The 2019 introduction of GH¢100 and GH¢200 notes

In 2019, the Bank of Ghana introduced GH¢100 and GH¢200 banknotes, together with a GH¢2 coin.

The GH¢100 and GH¢200 notes were introduced to support transactions and reduce the need to carry large quantities of lower-denomination notes.

The new Heritage Series now retains the GH¢100 and GH¢200 denominations but changes their design and historical representation.

The 2026 Heritage Series

The November 2026 launch marks another major stage in the development of Ghana’s currency.

The new series retains the existing denominations while introducing new portraits, landmarks, cultural symbols, improved durability and enhanced security features.

It also places greater emphasis on representing a wider range of contributions to national development.

The Big Six Are No Longer Together on the Notes. What Has Changed?

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One of the most widely discussed aspects of the new currency is the absence of the familiar collective portrait of the Big Six.

For many years, the image of the six leaders associated with Ghana’s independence struggle was a familiar feature of the GH¢2 note.

The Big Six were prominent members of the United Gold Coast Convention who became national figures following their arrest by the British colonial authorities in 1948.

They were:

1. Dr Kwame Nkrumah
2. Dr J.B. Danquah
3. Edward Akufo-Addo
4. William Ofori Atta
5. Ebenezer Ako-Adjei
6. Emmanuel Obetsebi-Lamptey

Their arrest followed disturbances in Accra during the struggle for political self-government. The event became an important moment in the development of Ghana’s nationalist movement.

The Heritage Series adopts a different approach. Instead of presenting the Big Six together, it features eight individuals selected to represent different areas of national life.

Nkrumah remains on the new notes, but he appears individually on the GH¢200 denomination.

The other five members of the Big Six are not included among the eight personalities in the new series.

This change does not erase the historical contribution of the Big Six. Their role in the independence struggle remains part of Ghana’s national history.

However, the new design broadens the range of people represented on the currency. It recognises contributions from commerce, religion, education, law, music, national identity and international diplomacy.

The change also raises a legitimate historical question about how a country chooses the personalities it honours on its national currency.

Why the New Cedi Notes Matter to Ghana’s National Identity

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The Heritage Series is significant because it connects economic activity with national memory.

Currency is used by nearly every section of society. It moves through rural and urban communities, formal and informal businesses, schools, markets, banks and public institutions.

A banknote can therefore become one of the most widely circulated forms of national representation.

The new series offers several important messages.

First, national development has many contributors. The inclusion of a market woman, a religious leader, an educationist, a judge, a composer, a flag designer, an international diplomat and a political leader shows that the development of a country cannot be attributed to one profession or institution.

Second, women deserve recognition in national history. Agnes Oforiwa Tagoe-Quarcoopome, Justice Annie Jiagge and Theodosia Okoh represent different dimensions of women’s contribution to commerce, law and national identity.

Third, culture remains important in modern national institutions. The Adinkra symbols demonstrate that Ghanaian cultural ideas can be incorporated into contemporary public design.

Fourth, Ghana’s history extends beyond politics. Education, religion, commerce, music, justice and diplomacy are also central to the national story.

Fifth, national currency can support public education. The images and symbols provide opportunities for schools, teachers, parents and students to discuss Ghanaian history.

The new notes may therefore become useful educational materials beyond their economic function.

What the New Notes Mean for Teachers, Students and Schools

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The Heritage Series offers an opportunity for schools to connect classroom learning with everyday life.

Teachers can use the notes to introduce discussions about Ghana’s political history, economic development, religious diversity, education, music, architecture and national symbols.

In Social Studies, learners can examine the independence struggle, the contributions of the Big Six, the role of national institutions and the meaning of sovereignty.

In History, students can research the lives of the personalities featured on the notes and compare their contributions.

In Creative Arts, learners can study the Adinkra symbols, flag design, music and architecture represented in the series.

In Mathematics, teachers can use the denominations to develop practical activities on money, addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, budgeting and financial literacy.

In Citizenship Education, the notes can introduce discussions about national identity, respect for public institutions, religious tolerance and responsible citizenship.

Schools can also organise a Heritage Cedi exhibition in which learners research one personality or landmark and present their findings to their classmates.

The new notes provide a practical way to connect the curriculum to the history and culture of Ghana.

When Will the New Notes Circulate, and What Happens to the Old Cedis?

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The Bank of Ghana has announced December 1, 2026, as the date on which the Heritage Series will enter circulation.

The new notes will be introduced gradually through the banking system.

The most important information for the public is that the existing cedi notes will remain legal tender. They will circulate alongside the new series during the transition.

This means that:

• Existing cedi notes remain valid for transactions.
• Members of the public do not need to rush to exchange their money.
• Businesses should continue accepting valid existing banknotes.
• Banks will manage the gradual introduction of the new series.
• The new notes will not change the monetary value of the denominations.

The Bank of Ghana has indicated that the transition will be managed to minimise disruption to economic activity.

The public should follow official announcements from the central bank and commercial banks for further details about the distribution process.

How Ghanaians Should Handle the New Banknotes

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The Bank of Ghana has urged the public to handle the new currency carefully.

Banknotes are public assets. Their durability depends partly on the materials used in production and partly on how they are treated during circulation.

The public should avoid practices that damage the notes, including:

• Writing or drawing on banknotes.
• Stapling notes together.
• Excessively folding or crumpling them.
• Spraying money during celebrations.
• Using banknotes to make decorative money bouquets.
• Exposing notes unnecessarily to moisture or other damaging substances.

The central bank has also emphasised that the protection of the cedi is a shared responsibility.

Banks, traders, public institutions and individuals all have a role in maintaining the quality of the currency.

What the Heritage Series Does Not Mean

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The launch has generated public interest, but some misconceptions need to be addressed.

It does not mean that the old cedi notes have become invalid. The Bank of Ghana has confirmed that existing notes remain legal tender.

It does not mean that the value of the cedi has changed. A redesigned GH¢10 note remains worth GH¢10. The redesign does not automatically increase purchasing power or reduce inflation.

It does not mean that the Big Six have been removed from Ghana’s history. The new notes change the way historical personalities are represented. The contribution of the Big Six remains part of the country’s independence story.

It does not mean that the Bank of Ghana has introduced a new denomination above GH¢200. The Heritage Series retains the existing eight denominations.

It does not mean that the public must exchange existing notes before December 1. The transition is intended to be gradual.

Ghanaians should be cautious about messages that demand money or personal information in exchange for new notes. Any official exchange or withdrawal arrangements should be confirmed through the Bank of Ghana or licensed financial institutions.

 A New Chapter in the History of the Ghana Cedi

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The Ghana Cedi Heritage Series represents a new chapter in the country’s currency history.

Its significance lies in the combination of practical currency improvements and the decision to use the notes as a platform for telling Ghana’s national story.

From Agnes Oforiwa Tagoe-Quarcoopome’s contribution to commerce to Cardinal Peter Dery’s religious leadership, from J.E.K. Aggrey’s educational legacy to Annie Jiagge’s contribution to justice, the new notes recognise different paths through which individuals have served the country.

Ephraim Amu represents the power of music and cultural expression. Theodosia Okoh represents the national flag and the meaning of independence. Kofi Annan represents Ghana’s contribution to international diplomacy and peacebuilding. Kwame Nkrumah represents the struggle for political independence and national sovereignty.

The landmarks and Adinkra symbols complete the story by connecting individual achievement to institutions, places and cultural values.

The success of the Heritage Series will ultimately depend on more than its appearance. Its security, durability, public acceptance and effective management will matter greatly.

The Bank of Ghana has a responsibility to ensure that the new notes are distributed efficiently, that their security features are understood and that the public receives accurate information.

For Ghanaians, the introduction of the series is an opportunity to become more familiar with the people and events that have shaped the country.

The cedi passes through millions of hands every day. The Heritage Series gives those hands a new set of historical stories to carry.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ghana’s New Cedi Notes

1. When will the new Ghana cedi notes enter circulation?

The Ghana Cedi Heritage Series is scheduled to enter circulation on December 1, 2026.

2. Will the old Ghana cedi notes become invalid?

No. The Bank of Ghana has confirmed that existing banknotes will remain legal tender and circulate alongside the new series during the transition.

3. What are the new Ghana cedi denominations?

The Heritage Series retains eight denominations: GH¢1, GH¢2, GH¢5, GH¢10, GH¢20, GH¢50, GH¢100 and GH¢200.

4. Who is on the new GH¢1 note?

The GH¢1 note features Agnes Oforiwa Tagoe-Quarcoopome, a pioneering market trader associated with Makola Market.

5. Who is on the new GH¢100 note?

The GH¢100 note features Kofi Annan, Ghana’s former diplomat and the seventh Secretary-General of the United Nations.

6. Is Kwame Nkrumah still on the new cedi notes?

Yes. Dr Kwame Nkrumah appears individually on the GH¢200 note.

7. Have the Big Six been removed from the currency?

The collective Big Six portrait is no longer used in the new series. Nkrumah remains on the GH¢200 note, while the other five members are not among the eight personalities selected.

8. What material is used to produce the new notes?

The Bank of Ghana says the Heritage Series is printed on reinforced cotton paper designed to improve durability and withstand frequent handling.

9. What is the purpose of the Cedi App?

The Cedi App is intended to help the public learn about the new notes, understand their features and identify genuine currency. It is also designed to assist persons with visual impairments.

10. Does the new design mean the cedi has gained or lost value?

No. A redesign does not change the face value of the currency. A GH¢20 note remains GH¢20. The exchange value and purchasing power of the cedi depend on wider economic conditions.

Conclusion

The launch of the Ghana Cedi Heritage Series is an important national event. It brings together currency modernisation and historical recognition in a way that will place the stories of eight Ghanaian personalities before the public every day.

The new notes recognise the contributions of traders, religious leaders, educators, judges, musicians, artists, diplomats and political leaders. They also provide a visible connection to Ghana’s landmarks, cultural symbols and national institutions.

As circulation begins on December 1, 2026, Ghanaians should take time to learn the features of the new notes, understand the people represented and remember that the old notes remain legal tender.

The Heritage Series offers a useful reminder that the story of Ghana belongs to many people, from those who led the independence struggle to those who built communities, educated generations, promoted justice, preserved culture and sustained the economy.

About the Author

Ferdinand Ellis is a Ghanaian lecturer, curriculum specialist, education researcher, policy analyst and education blogger. He holds an MPhil in Curriculum and Pedagogic Studies from the University of Education, Winneba, a Bachelor of Education in Accounting from the University of Cape Coast and a Diploma in Basic Education from Accra College of Education.

He teaches through the University of Education, Winneba’s College of Distance and e-Learning and writes on education, public policy, national development and social issues. He is the founder of EducateGhana.com, Ghana’s Education Intelligence Platform.

Read more: Ferdinand Ellis: Academic and Professional Profile

Editorial Source Note

Primary source: Bank of Ghana, Launch of the Ghana Cedi Heritage Series: Welcome Remarks by Dr Johnson Pandit Asiama, November 12, 2026.

Additional reporting and historical references:

• Graphic Online, November 12, 2026, report on President Mahama’s launch of the Heritage Series.
• MyJoyOnline, November 12, 2026, detailed account of the eight personalities, landmarks and Adinkra symbols.
• Vatican and Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference biographies of Cardinal Peter Poreku Dery.
• United Nations biography of Kofi Annan.
• Nobel Prize biography of Kofi Annan.
• Dictionary of African Christian Biography and Encyclopaedia Africana entries on J.E.K. Aggrey.
• Historical biographies of Justice Annie Jiagge.
• University and archival biographical materials on Ephraim Amu.

Sources consulted for this article

• Bank of Ghana, Governor’s official launch remarks, November 12, 2026. Read the official launch remarks

• Graphic Online, report on President Mahama’s launch and the currency design. Read the launch report

• MyJoyOnline, detailed breakdown of the eight personalities, landmarks and Adinkra symbols. Read the eight-personality guide

• Vatican, biography of Cardinal Peter Poreku Dery. Read Cardinal Dery’s biography

• United Nations, biography of Kofi Annan. Read Kofi Annan’s UN biography

• Nobel Prize, Kofi Annan’s 2001 Peace Prize record. Read the Nobel Prize profile

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