Thailand Banknotes
From pre-WWII issues to modern commemoratives, Thailand’s banknotes reflect the nation’s rich cultural heritage, royal legacy, and political evolution. Explore rare currency from the era of Siam to present-day Thailand.
Explore Rare and Historic Thailand Banknotes
Thailand banknotes reflect more than just economic value—they capture the nation’s evolving identity, leadership, and historical milestones. Before the issuance of official government banknotes, private and foreign banks operated in Siam, including the Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation and the Chartered Bank of India, Australia and China, which issued their own currency for circulation.
The transition to government-issued banknotes begins with the uniface Thailand banknotes, the first official paper money issued by the Government of Siam since the reign of King Rama V. These early notes are notable for featuring four languages—Thai, English, Chinese, and Malay—highlighting the country’s regional diversity and trade importance.
The iconic Type 2 banknotes introduced the Royal Ploughing Ceremony on the reverse, a powerful symbol of prosperity and agricultural tradition. This was followed by Type 3, the first series to feature a portrait of the Thai monarch, King Rama VII, later succeeded by notes bearing the image of King Rama VIII.
Types 4 to 8 continued to showcase King Rama VII, with Type 4 marking a historic transition—it was the last to be issued under the “Government of Siam” before the country's official renaming to Thailand in 1939, continuing under the “Government of Thailand” with the same note design. Type 5, uniquely printed in Japan, was followed by locally produced Types 6 and 7, and then Type 8, which was printed in the United States by Tudor Press.
The modern era began with Type 9, the first series to feature King Rama IX, printed by De La Rue, followed by Type 10, which had a single denomination. Type 11 was the first printed domestically by Thailand’s National Printing Works, while Types 12 to 16 continued to honor King Rama IX. The current Type 17 series proudly features King Rama X.
Thailand has also issued numerous commemorative banknotes celebrating royal events and national milestones. Additionally, World War II-era banknotes such as the Seri Thai movement notes and Thai Occupied Malay States banknotes remain highly collectible for their historical significance and rarity.
Learn More About Thai Banknotes
Browse the articles below to explore the rich numismatic history of Thailand—from the origins of the Thai Baht and symbolic banknote designs to wartime issues, commemorative notes, and the legacy of the Seri Thai Movement. Discover how Thai currency reflects the nation's culture, politics, and royal heritage.
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