Ghana has introduced new cedi notes under the Heritage Series, and each banknote tells a different story about the country's history, culture and achievements. The new notes feature eight notable Ghanaians, important national landmarks and traditional Adinkra symbols.
President John Dramani Mahama unveiled the new banknotes at the Bank of Ghana's headquarters in Accra on Thursday, November 12, 2026.
The new notes are expected to enter circulation on December 1, 2026. However, the current cedi notes will remain legal tender, meaning Ghanaians can continue using them.
Here is a breakdown of the people, places and adinkra featured on each new banknote.
GH¢1 – Agnes Oforiwa Tagoe-Quarcoopome
The new GH¢1 note features Agnes Oforiwa Tagoe-Quarcoopome (1913–1997), a well-known Accra market trader who supported Kwame Nkrumah's independence campaign.
The back of the note shows market women selling foodstuffs, representing the important role traders play in Ghana's economy.
It also features the Adinkra symbol Bese Saka, which represents wealth, abundance and trade.
GH¢2 – Cardinal Peter Dery
The GH¢2 note features Cardinal Peter Poreku Dery (1918–2008), a respected Catholic leader who served as Archbishop of Tamale. He became a cardinal in 2006.
The back of the note features the famous Larabanga Mosque in the Savannah Region, one of the oldest mosques in West Africa.
Its Adinkra symbol is Nyame Dua, meaning God's presence and protection.
GH¢5 – Dr J.E.K. Aggrey
The blue GH¢5 note features Dr James Emman Kwegyir Aggrey (1875–1927), a respected Ghanaian educationist.
He is remembered for his famous piano-keys lesson, which explained the importance of unity and equal opportunities.
The back of the note shows Achimota School in Accra, which he helped establish.
The Adinkra symbol is Nea Onnim No Sua A, Ohu, meaning that someone who does not know can learn and gain knowledge.
GH¢10 – Justice Annie Jiagge
The green GH¢10 note honours Justice Annie Jiagge (1918–1996), a Ghanaian judge and women's rights advocate.
She played an important role in promoting women's rights and helped draft the United Nations Declaration on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women.
The back of the note features Ghana's Supreme Court and the Martyrs of the Rule of Law monument.
Its Adinkra symbol is Epa, representing law and justice.
GH¢20 – Dr Ephraim Amu
The purple GH¢20 note features Dr Ephraim Amu (1899–1995), a respected Ghanaian composer and musician.
He is widely remembered for composing the patriotic song "Yɛn Ara Asaase Ni".
The back of the note shows the National Theatre in Accra.
Its Adinkra symbol is Dono, a talking drum that represents praise, goodwill and rhythm.
GH¢50 – Theodosia Okoh
The GH¢50 note features Theodosia Okoh (1922–2015), the Ghanaian woman who designed the country's national flag.
Her design gave Ghana its familiar red, gold and green colours with the Black Star in the middle.
The back of the note features Jubilee House, Ghana's seat of government.
Its Adinkra symbol is Fawohodie, which represents independence and freedom.
GH¢100 – Kofi Annan
The turquoise GH¢100 note honours Kofi Annan (1938–2018), Ghana's internationally recognised diplomat who served as the seventh Secretary-General of the United Nations.
He also received the 2001 Nobel Peace Prize for his contribution to peace.
The back of the note features the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre in Accra.
Its Adinkra symbol is Bi Nka Bi, meaning that no one should bite another. It represents peace, unity and harmony.
GH¢200 – Dr Kwame Nkrumah
The GH¢200 note features Ghana's first President, Dr Kwame Nkrumah (1909–1972).
He led Ghana to independence from British colonial rule on March 6, 1957.
The back of the note features the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park in Accra, where his mausoleum and statue are located.
Its Adinkra symbol is Adinkrahene, which represents leadership, greatness and authority.
When Will the New Cedi Notes Start Circulating?
According to the Bank of Ghana, the new Heritage Series banknotes will enter circulation on December 1, 2026.
The existing cedi notes will remain legal tender and can still be used for payments.
Ghanaians are also being advised to handle the new notes carefully. The Bank of Ghana has warned against spraying, crumpling, stapling or turning the notes into money bouquets.
The new banknotes combine Ghana's history, culture and achievements by recognising important personalities, national landmarks and traditional symbols.