The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has warned traders, transport operators, businesses, and the general public that refusing to accept Ghana cedi coins as payment is against the law and could result in criminal prosecution.
In a public notice issued on July 22, 2026, the central bank expressed concern over the increasing refusal of many businesses and transport operators to accept coins in everyday transactions.
The affected denominations include the 1 pesewa, 5 pesewa, 10 pesewa, 20 pesewa, 50 pesewa, GH¢1 and GH¢2 coins.
According to the Bank, all coins issued by the Bank of Ghana remain valid legal tender and have not been withdrawn from circulation. As such, they must be accepted for the payment of goods and services throughout the country.
The notice follows an earlier directive issued on July 14, 2026, which addressed the misuse, abuse and illegal handling of Ghana cedi notes and coins.
While that notice focused on protecting the physical condition of the currency, the latest statement specifically addresses the unlawful refusal to accept coins.
The Bank reminded the public that no trader, transport operator, business or individual has the right to reject coins simply because they consider them inconvenient, of low value or based on personal preference.
It stressed that refusing to sell goods or provide services because a customer is paying with valid coins constitutes an offence under the Currency Act, 1964 (Act 242).
The BoG further stated that anyone convicted of the offence could face a fine, imprisonment for up to three years, or both.
It also warned that business owners who instruct their employees to reject coins may be held equally responsible under the law. In addition, offenders may be arrested without a warrant if caught committing the offence.
To ensure compliance, the Bank said it will work closely with the Ghana Police Service and other law enforcement agencies to investigate and prosecute offenders.
Members of the public have also been encouraged to report businesses or individuals who unlawfully refuse to accept coins through the nearest Bank of Ghana office, the Ghana Police Service, or the Bank’s official communication channels.
