The Bank of Ghana on Thursday unveiled its Heritage Series of cedi banknotes, an upgraded set aimed at improving the security, durability and resilience of the currency.
The unveiling was moved from Nov. 3 to Nov. 12, and no official reason was given for the change. Governor Dr Johnson Pandit Asiama first announced the series after the Monetary Policy Committee’s 132nd meeting on Sept. 24.
The series covers the existing denominations of GH¢1, GH¢2, GH¢5, GH¢10, GH¢20, GH¢50, GH¢100 and GH¢200. The central bank has ruled out any denomination higher than GH¢200.
The bank says the redesign is meant to strengthen protection against counterfeiting, improve durability and make currency management more cost-effective. The notes will keep the traditional cotton material, but reinforced for longer life. Tactile marks are included for visually impaired users.
The designs draw on national identity. Dr Asiama described the series as a chance to honour national heroes and celebrate Ghana’s heritage and culture through modern designs. Its theme is “The Cedi, Our Future: Secure, Designed to Last.”
Members of the public need not rush to the bank. Existing notes remain legal tender and will circulate alongside the new series. No exchange deadline has been announced. The Bank of Ghana says it will run public education on how to tell genuine notes from counterfeits.
The bank had not yet published the specific security features at the time of the earlier reports.