Ghana has unveiled a new series of banknotes featuring prominent historical figures and national landmarks, as the country moves to modernise its currency and strengthen protection against counterfeiting.
The new notes, known as the Heritage Series, were introduced by the Bank of Ghana on Thursday, 12 November, and will enter circulation on 1 December 2026.
They will replace neither the existing currency nor its value. Instead, the redesigned notes will circulate alongside the current banknotes, which remain legal tender.
The series retains Ghana's eight denominations: GH₵1, GH₵2, GH₵5, GH₵10, GH₵20, GH₵50, GH₵100 and GH₵200.
The central bank says the redesign comes after more than two decades of using the core designs of the existing notes.
Each banknote highlights a different aspect of Ghana's history, culture and national identity, featuring influential figures alongside important landmarks.
The GH₵1 note honours Agnes Oforiwa Tagoe-Quarcoopome, a pioneering Accra market trader and market queen. It also features Makola Market, reflecting the contribution of market women to Ghana's economy.
The GH₵2 note celebrates religious heritage, featuring Cardinal Peter Dery, a prominent Ghanaian Catholic leader, and the historic Larabanga Mosque in northern Ghana.
Education takes centre stage on the GH₵5 note, which features James Emman Kwegyir Aggrey, an influential educator and Pan-Africanist, alongside Achimota School.
