The Bank of Ghana has addressed public concerns over the portrait of Mrs Theodosia Salome Okoh on the new GH₵50 Heritage Series banknote.
It says the image was not taken from a photograph of her sister, Dr Letitia Obeng.
In a press release dated Friday, November 13, the central bank said the portrait of Mrs Okoh, the designer of Ghana’s national flag, was developed from different photographs of her.
The Bank explained that the photographs were used to create an engraved artistic representation suitable for banknote printing.
During the process, certain adjustments were made to meet the technical and security requirements of currency production.
These included replacing Mrs Okoh’s familiar head-tie with a hairstyle common during that period.
According to the Bank, these adaptations contributed to “the perceived differences in her appearance and to the image bearing a close likeness to Dr Obeng”.
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 meant to honour Mrs Okoh and her invaluable contribution to Ghana’s national identity.
The Bank added that it is committed to ensuring that distinguished personalities featured on the country’s currency are represented with dignity and respect.
The Heritage Series banknotes will enter circulation on 1 December 2026.