BoG to circulate new cedis December 1; existing notes remain legal tender

The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has assured the public that existing banknotes will remain legal tender alongside the newly introduced Heritage Series when the redesigned currency enters circulation on December 1, 2026.

Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr Johnson Asiama, said the existing banknotes would continue to circulate alongside the new series to ensure a smooth transition and prevent disruptions to economic activities.

Speaking at the launch of the Heritage Series banknotes on Thursday, November 12, 2026, Dr Asiama stressed that the introduction of the redesigned notes would not invalidate the currency currently in circulation.

He explained that allowing both series to circulate simultaneously would give individuals, businesses and other economic operators sufficient time to adjust to the new banknotes.

“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 central bank was committed to managing the transition in a manner that maintains public confidence in the cedi and ensures continuity in the country's payment systems.

He added that the gradual introduction of the new banknotes would minimise disruptions to everyday transactions while allowing the public to become familiar 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 is scheduled to enter circulation on December 1, 2026. Under the announced arrangement, the new and existing banknotes will remain in use concurrently, with the current series retaining its status as legal tender.

The BoG's assurance means that members of the public will not be required to exchange their existing banknotes immediately when the Heritage Series enters circulation.

Businesses, retailers and other service providers are expected to continue accepting valid existing banknotes alongside the redesigned notes during the transition.

The central bank says the arrangement is intended to support an orderly changeover without interrupting payments or everyday economic activities.