The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has attributed differences in the appearance of Theodosia Salome Okoh’s portrait on the new GH₵50 Heritage Series banknote to artistic adjustments made during the currency production process.
In a press release issued on Friday, November 13, the Bank clarified that the portrait was developed using different photographs of Mrs Okoh, the designer of Ghana’s national flag, and not from a photograph of her sister, Dr Letitia Obeng.
The clarification follows concerns over the portrait’s resemblance to Dr Obeng, with questions raised about whether the correct personality had been featured on the banknote.
According to the Bank, the photographs of Mrs Okoh were used to create an engraved artistic representation suitable for banknote printing.
It explained that certain adjustments were made during the process 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.
The Bank acknowledged that the adaptations contributed to the perceived differences in her appearance and the portrait’s close resemblance to Dr Obeng.
It also expressed appreciation to the family for its constructive engagement and to the public for its interest in preserving Ghana’s national heritage.
The Bank reaffirmed that the portrait is intended to honour Mrs Okoh and her contribution to Ghana’s national identity, adding that it remains committed to ensuring that distinguished personalities featured on the country’s currency are represented with dignity and respect.
The new GH₵50 Heritage Series banknotes are scheduled to enter circulation on December 1, 2026.
