The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has rejected suggestions that the portrait of Ghana’s national flag designer, Theodosia Salome Okoh, featured on the new GH¢50 Heritage Series banknote was taken from a photograph of her sister, Dr Letitia Obeng.
In a statement dated Friday, November 13, the Central Bank said the portrait was developed from different photographs of Mrs. Okoh herself, following public concerns about the image’s resemblance to Dr Obeng.
“The Bank confirms that the portrait was developed from different photographs of Mrs. Okoh, and not from a photograph of her sister, Dr Letitia Obeng,” the statement said.
The Bank explained that the photographs were used to create an engraved artistic representation suitable for banknote printing, rather than a direct reproduction of an ordinary photograph.
It said some modifications were made during the design process to satisfy the technical and security requirements of currency production.
These included replacing Mrs Okoh’s familiar head-tie with a hairstyle common during the period.
The Bank acknowledged that the changes contributed to the perceived differences in her appearance and the resemblance to her sister.
“These adaptations, unfortunately, contributed to the perceived differences in her appearance, and to the image bearing a close likeness to Dr Obeng,” the statement said.
The clarification comes after the portrait on the new GH¢50 note attracted public scrutiny following the unveiling of the Cedi Heritage Series.
Mrs. Okoh is being honoured on the denomination for her contribution to Ghana’s national identity through the design of the national flag, which was adopted at independence in 1957.
The Bank reaffirmed that the portrait was intended to recognise her contribution to the country.
“The Bank reaffirms that the portrait is intended to honour Mrs Theodosia Salome Okoh and her invaluable contribution to Ghana’s national identity,” it stated.
It added, “The Bank is committed to ensuring that the distinguished personalities featured on Ghana’s currency are represented with dignity and respect.”
The Heritage Series banknotes are expected to enter circulation on Tuesday, December 1, 2026.
