Rebecca Naa Dede Ayeetey, whose face is featured on Ghana's 50 pesewa coin, was a notable trader and influential figure in the early days of the country's independence.

Born in 1923 in Osu during the pre-independence era, Rebecca played a significant role in Ghanaian politics before the nation gained independence in 1957.

Growing into an established businesswoman, revered political activist, and chief financier of the Convention Peoples Party (CPP), Rebecca, nicknamed 'Ashikishan' due to her success in selling flour, made a lasting impact.

As a key supporter of the CPP under leader Kwame Nkrumah, she provided her home at Kokomlemle as a meeting center for the party's women.

However, her association with Nkrumah made her a target for the rival political party, United Gold Coast Convention (UGCC), leading to her tragic demise.

Rebecca passed away at a CPP function in Ho on June 22, 1961, at the age of 38.

Reports suggest she fell victim to a plot during the event, allegedly poisoned after complaining of a stomach ache following the consumption of hot tea.

Despite her untimely death, Rebecca Naa Dede Ayeetey's legacy endured. In the 1960s, Ghana's double-decker buses brought to Accra by Minister of Transport and Communications Harry Sawyer were named 'Auntie Dede' in her honor.

Today, her image graces a national stamp, and she is immortalized on the 50 pesewa coin.