Old cedi notes to remain legal tender as heritage series enters circulation December 1

The existing Ghanaian banknotes will remain legal tender alongside the newly launched Heritage Series notes as the Bank of Ghana begins a gradual currency transition on December 1, 2026.

President John Dramani Mahama announced this during the official launch of the Heritage Series banknotes on Thursday, November 12, 2026.

He explained that the introduction of the new banknotes would not result in the immediate withdrawal of the existing currency, assuring the public that both versions would circulate side by side during the transition period.

“The new notes will run side by side with the old currency notes. They are not displacing the old currency notes. The banks will withdraw the old notes gradually until the new notes take over completely,” President Mahama said.

According to him, financial institutions will gradually withdraw the existing banknotes as the new Heritage Series notes become more widely available.

The Bank of Ghana has confirmed December 1, 2026, as the date for the commencement of circulation of the new banknotes, while the existing notes will retain their legal tender status throughout the transition.

The Heritage Series features historical figures, landmarks and cultural symbols intended to reflect Ghana’s national identity and celebrate the country's heritage.

President Mahama said the new currency would help bring Ghana’s history closer to younger generations by placing important reminders of the country's past in their everyday lives.

The new banknotes are als0p1ao made from reinforced cotton paper and are smaller in size, with the President describing them as more durable and easier to handle.