The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has clarified that the existing banknotes will retain their legal tender status when the redesigned Cedi Heritage Series is introduced into circulation on December 1, 2026.
BoG Governor, Dr Johnson Asiama, said both the old and new banknotes would remain in circulation concurrently to facilitate a seamless transition and avoid disruptions to economic activities.
Speaking at the launch of the Heritage Series on Thursday, November 12, Dr Asiama emphasised that the rollout of the redesigned banknotes would not render the existing currency invalid.
He said the decision to keep both series in circulation would allow individuals, businesses and other economic players adequate time to familiarise themselves with the new notes and adapt to the transition.
“The Heritage Series will be introduced into circulation from December 1, 2026, and will circulate alongside the existing series, and the existing series will remain legal tender,” he said.
Dr Asiama said the Bank of Ghana would manage the transition to preserve public confidence in the cedi and ensure the smooth operation of the country’s payment systems.
He added that the phased introduction of the new banknotes would minimise disruptions to financial transactions while giving the public time to familiarise themselves with the redesigned currency.
“The Bank of Ghana remains committed to a well-managed transition that supports continuity in payments and reinforces confidence in the cedi,” he said.
The Heritage Series banknotes are expected to enter circulation on December 1, 2026, and will circulate alongside the existing notes during the transition period.
