Ghana’s newly introduced Ghana Cedi Heritage Series is bringing the country’s history and national identity into greater focus through redesigned banknotes featuring prominent personalities and cultural symbols.

Unveiled by the Bank of Ghana on November 12, 2026, the new series celebrates individuals whose contributions have shaped the country’s independence struggle, education, religion, music, politics and social development.

The redesigned banknotes cover all eight existing denominations, from GH¢1 to GH¢200, with improved security features, enhanced durability and more portable sizes.

The personalities associated with the denominations include some of Ghana’s most recognised historical figures, alongside individuals whose contributions deserve wider national recognition.

GH¢1 – Madam Agnes Oforiwa Tagoe-Quarcoopome

Madam Agnes Oforiwa Tagoe-Quarcoopome was a prominent Ghanaian market woman and independence activist who supported Dr Kwame Nkrumah’s political movement.

She played an important role in mobilising women at Makola Market to support the independence struggle, including helping to raise funds for Nkrumah’s political activities.

Her story highlights the contribution of market women to Ghana’s journey towards independence.

GH¢2 – Cardinal Peter Poreku Dery

Cardinal Peter Poreku Dery was a distinguished Ghanaian Catholic clergyman and the country’s first cardinal.

Born in 1918, he served as Archbishop of Tamale and became widely recognised for his contribution to the Catholic Church and religious development in Ghana.

His inclusion celebrates his religious leadership and lasting contribution to the country.

GH¢5 – Dr James Emman Kwegyir Aggrey

Dr James Emman Kwegyir Aggrey was a pioneering Ghanaian educator, missionary and intellectual who strongly believed in the power of education.

He championed educational opportunities for Africans and encouraged the development of knowledge, leadership and equal opportunities for both men and women.

His legacy continues to inspire conversations about education and human development across Africa.

GH¢10 – Justice Annie Ruth Jiagge

Justice Annie Ruth Jiagge was a pioneering Ghanaian jurist who became the country’s first female High Court judge.

She was also an influential advocate for women’s rights and played an important role in international efforts to promote gender equality.

Her achievements opened doors for women in the legal profession and public leadership.

GH¢20 – Dr Ephraim Kwaku Amu

Dr Ephraim Kwaku Amu was a celebrated Ghanaian composer, musicologist and educator.

He is best remembered for composing the patriotic song Yɛn Ara Asaase Ni, which remains one of Ghana’s most recognised national songs.

Through his music and educational work, Amu helped preserve and promote Ghanaian cultural identity.

GH¢50 – Theodosia Salome Okoh

Theodosia Salome Okoh was a renowned Ghanaian artist best known for designing the national flag of Ghana in 1957.

Her design, featuring red, gold and green horizontal stripes with a black star at the centre, became one of the country’s most recognisable national symbols.

Her contribution remains an important part of Ghana’s history and identity.

GH¢100 – Kofi Annan

Kofi Annan was a distinguished Ghanaian diplomat who served as the seventh Secretary-General of the United Nations from 1997 to 2006.

He became one of the most influential African figures in international diplomacy and received the Nobel Peace Prize in 2001, jointly with the United Nations.

His work focused on international cooperation, peacekeeping, human rights and global development.

GH¢200 – Dr Kwame Nkrumah

Dr Kwame Nkrumah was Ghana’s first President and a central figure in the country’s independence struggle.

He led Ghana to independence from British colonial rule on March 6, 1957, and became a leading voice for African unity and liberation.

His political vision and contribution to Ghana’s history have made him one of the country’s most significant historical personalities.

A Currency That Tells Ghana’s Story

The Heritage Series represents more than a redesign of Ghana’s banknotes. It provides an opportunity to recognise the people, events and cultural symbols that have shaped the nation’s identity.

By highlighting personalities from different fields, the new currency can help introduce younger generations to important figures whose contributions remain part of Ghana’s national story.

The Bank of Ghana says the new notes are designed to combine improved security and durability with a celebration of Ghana’s heritage.

As the Heritage Series enters circulation, the stories behind its designs are expected to generate renewed public interest in the people who helped shape the country.

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