diff --git a/README.md b/README.md
index 3c07081..de05e07 100644
--- a/README.md
+++ b/README.md
@@ -73,8 +73,9 @@ Help support Gdspy development by [donating via PayPal](https://www.paypal.com/c
 
 ## History of changes
 
-### Version 1.6.8 (Aug 2, 2021)
+### Version 1.6.9 (Sep 23, 2021)
 * Fix in `Cell.get_polygons` with specified layer and datatype.
+* Raise error for duplicate cells when reading a GDSII file.
 
 ### Version 1.6.8 (Aug 2, 2021)
 * Fix in `boolean` for complex geometries that freeze the operation.
diff --git a/gdspy/__init__.py b/gdspy/__init__.py
index 5abb652..8790714 100644
--- a/gdspy/__init__.py
+++ b/gdspy/__init__.py
@@ -19,7 +19,7 @@
 - http://www.buchanan1.net/stream_description.html
 """
 
-__version__ = "1.6.8"
+__version__ = "1.6.9"
 
 import warnings