The Banque des États de l’Afrique centrale (BEAC) has announced a schedule for the demonetization of older franc CFA coins in the CEMAC zone, starting November 1, 2026.
This initiative affects coins issued from 1958 to 1985 and is part of a modernization effort for the six CEMAC countries: Gabon, Cameroon, Congo, Chad, Central African Republic, and Equatorial Guinea. The old coins will no longer be legal tender but can be exchanged for newer series coins from 2006 and 2024 until October 31, 2027. The exchange process will occur in two phases, with the first phase running from November 1, 2026, to July 31, 2027, at various institutions, and the second phase from August 1 to October 31, 2027, exclusively at BEAC counters.
Gabon: Demonetization of Older CFA Coins
The BEAC’s decision to demonetize older franc CFA coins is a significant step towards modernizing the monetary system in the CEMAC region. The affected coins, which have been in circulation for decades, will be phased out to streamline transactions and enhance the efficiency of the currency system.
During the exchange period, holders of the old coins will have ample opportunity to convert them into the newer series. The BEAC has made it clear that the newer coins from 2006 and 2024 will remain valid and must be accepted in all transactions, ensuring continuity in the monetary system.
Gabon: Key figures on Demonetization
- November 1, 2026: Start date for demonetization
- October 31, 2027: Last date for exchanging old coins
Next Steps in the Demonetization Process
- Exchange of old coins at BEAC counters and other institutions until July 31, 2027
- Exclusive exchange at BEAC counters from August 1 to October 31, 2027
- Old coins will no longer be exchangeable after October 31, 2027
This demonetization process aims to modernize the monetary circulation system in the CEMAC region.
