The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has rejected claims that the portrait of Mrs. Theodosia Salome Okoh on the new GHC50 Heritage Series banknote is actually that of her sister, Dr. Leticia Obeng.
In a statement issued on Friday, November 13, 2026, the central bank said the portrait was developed from different photographs of Mrs Okoh, the designer of Ghana’s national flag, and not from a photograph of Dr. Obeng.
The clarification follows public concerns after the unveiling of the Heritage Series banknotes, with the family and some members of the public arguing that the image bore a closer resemblance to Dr. Obeng than to Mrs Okoh.
According to the Bank, the photographs were used to create an engraved artistic representation suitable for banknote printing.
It explained that during the process, certain adjustments were made to meet the technical and security requirements of currency production, including the replacement of Mrs Okoh’s familiar head-tie with a hairstyle common during that period.
“These adaptations, unfortunately, contributed to the perceived differences in her appearance and to the image bearing a close likeness to Dr Obeng,” the Bank said.
The Bank said it appreciates the family’s constructive engagement and the public’s interest in preserving Ghana’s national heritage.
It reaffirmed that the portrait is intended to honour Mrs. Theodosia Salome Okoh and her invaluable contribution to Ghana’s national identity, and that it is committed to ensuring that distinguished personalities featured on Ghana’s currency are represented with dignity and respect.
The Heritage Series banknotes will enter circulation on December 1, 2026.
