The Bank of Ghana has warned traders, transport operators, businesses and individuals that refusing to accept valid Ghana cedi coins in payment could lead to criminal prosecution, including a possible prison sentence of up to three years.
The warning follows growing reports of the rejection of lower-denomination coins, including the 1, 5, 10, 20 and 50 pesewa coins, as well as the GH¢1 and GH¢2 coins, in commercial transactions.
In a public notice dated July 22, 2026, the central bank stressed that all coins currently in circulation remain legal tender and have not been demonetised or withdrawn.
The Bank said no trader, transport operator, business entity or individual has the discretion to reject valid coins simply because they are considered inconvenient to handle, have a low face value or are not preferred.
It said the Currency Act makes it an offence for a person to refuse to sell goods or provide services solely because a customer seeks to pay with valid coins or banknotes.
A person found guilty could face a fine, imprisonment for up to three years, or both.
The Bank of Ghana also warned that individuals who encourage, direct or instruct others to reject valid legal tender could equally face criminal liability.
According to the central bank, offenders may be arrested without a warrant, and it will collaborate with the Ghana Police Service and other law enforcement agencies to ensure compliance.
The Bank’s warning comes amid concerns that the widespread rejection of lower-denomination coins could disrupt everyday cash transactions, particularly within the informal economy where small-value payments remain common.
The rejection of such coins could also lead to the rounding up of prices, distort retail transactions and gradually reduce the practical value of lower denominations in the economy.
The BoG said the continued acceptance of all valid cedi denominations was important to maintaining the integrity and efficiency of Ghana’s payment system.
It has therefore urged members of the public to report instances where valid Ghana cedi coins are rejected to the Bank of Ghana through its official communication channels or to the Ghana Police Service.
The central bank has reiterated that until any denomination is formally withdrawn or demonetised, it remains legal tender and must be accepted for legitimate transactions.
