The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has warned traders, transport operators, businesses and the general public that refusing to accept legally issued cedi and pesewa coins as payment is an offence under Ghanaian law.
The central bank said all coins it has issued remain legal tender unless officially withdrawn from circulation. It cautioned that anyone who refuses to accept them could face prosecution, a fine, imprisonment or both.
The warning follows widespread complaints from consumers who say some traders and commercial drivers routinely reject coins during everyday transactions.
All BoG-issued coins remain valid
According to the Bank of Ghana, all coins currently in circulation remain valid for use in transactions.
These include:
- 1 pesewa
- 5 pesewa
- 10 pesewa
- 20 pesewa
- 50 pesewa
- GH¢1 coin
- GH¢2 coin
The central bank stressed that none of these denominations has been withdrawn from circulation.
As a result, businesses and individuals are required to accept them when offered as payment.
Refusing coins could lead to prosecution
The Bank of Ghana said rejecting legally issued coins violates Ghana’s currency laws.
Reports accompanying the notice indicate that offenders could face criminal sanctions, including a fine, imprisonment for up to three years, or both.
The warning is aimed particularly at traders, transport operators and businesses that frequently refuse smaller coin denominations.
BoG seeks to restore confidence in coins
The central bank’s directive comes amid growing concerns over the increasing refusal of pesewa and cedi coins in markets, shops and public transport.
Many consumers have complained that they are often unable to use coins when making purchases or paying fares, despite the coins remaining legal tender.
The Bank of Ghana is urging the public to recognise that all officially issued coins retain their value unless the central bank formally announces otherwise.
The latest reminder is expected to encourage wider acceptance of coins and improve their circulation in everyday transactions across the country.
