DON’T RUSH TO THE BANK: Your Old Cedi Notes Are Still Valid – Mahama
President John Dramani Mahama has assured Ghanaians that the new Ghana Cedi banknotes will not replace the old ones overnight.
Speaking at the launch of the Ghana Heritage Series banknotes at Bank Square in Accra on Thursday, President Mahama said the new notes will run side by side with the existing notes.
“The new notes will run side by side with the old currency notes. We are not displacing the old currency notes. The banks will withdraw the old notes gradually until the new notes take over completely,” he said.
The President explained that the new series is made from reinforced cotton paper, designed to last longer than the old notes. The notes are also smaller and easier to handle.
He stressed that the exercise is not a redenomination, and the value of the cedi remains unchanged.
The Heritage Series covers all eight denominations: GH¢1, GH¢2, GH¢5, GH¢10, GH¢20, GH¢50, GH¢100 and GH¢200. It also marks the return of the GH¢2 banknote. Coins are not included in the redesign.
The launch was held under the theme: “The Cedi, Our Future: Secure, Designed to Last.”
The Bank of Ghana has announced that the Heritage Series will enter circulation on December 1, 2026. Until then, the Bank will carry out public education on the new security features and how to check that a note is genuine.
The Bank has urged the public not to rush to banks to exchange or withdraw their existing cash. Both old and new notes will remain legal tender during the transition period.
About The Author
