Thailand 1 Baht Coin (Rama IX), Cupro-Nickel, featuring Wat Phra Kaew
Coin/Currency · Royal Thai Mint, established under the Treasury Department of Thailand. The mint is renowned for producing high volumes of daily circulation coinage as well as ornate commemorative issues.
Pattern: Standard Circulation Series, Rama IX (King Bhumibol Adulyadej), introduced in BE 2529 (1986). This is one of the most widely circulated coins in Southeast Asian history.
Type
Coin/Currency
Maker
Royal Thai Mint, established under the Treasury Department of Thailand. The mint is renowned for producing high volumes of daily circulation coinage as well as ornate commemorative issues.
Material
Cupro-Nickel (Copper 75%, Nickel 25%). Please note: This item is not solid silver, but a silver-colored base metal alloy used for durability in general circulation.
Dimensions
Diameter: 20 mm; Thickness: 1.48 mm; Weight: 3.4 grams. This is the 'reduced size' version of the 1 Baht, which was shrunk in 1986 to save on production costs.
Description
A silver-toned 1 Baht circulation coin from Thailand. The reverse depicts an iconic view of the spires of Wat Phra Kaew, located within the Grand Palace complex in Bangkok. This coin represents the most common unit of currency encountered in Thailand during the early 2000s and is a symbol of the nation's reverence for both its monarchy and its Buddhist heritage.
Key Features
Depiction of Wat Phra Kaew on reverse; King Rama IX on obverse (implied); Thai Buddhist Era date 2549; Reeded edge; Cupro-nickel composition.
Material & Composition
Cupro-Nickel (Copper 75%, Nickel 25%). Please note: This item is not solid silver, but a silver-colored base metal alloy used for durability in general circulation.
Finish & Decoration
Business strike with a matte/satin luster. The reverse features the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew) in Bangkok. Decorative elements include traditional Thai numerals and script. Architectural detail is rendered in a simplified relief style typical of late 20th-century coinage.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The coin features the Thai script 'ประเทศไทย' (Thailand) and the date 'พ.ศ. ๒๕๔๙' (BE 2549, which corresponds to 2006). The denomination '1 Baht' is marked in both Thai and Arabic numerals.
Construction Details
Mass-produced via high-pressure die-striking from machine-cut planchets. The edges are reeded (milled) to prevent clipping and for tactile identification.
Functional Features
Legal tender currency for the Kingdom of Thailand. Features a raised rim to protect the interior design from surface wear during circulation.
Handle & Grip Details
None (standard flat coin design). The reeded edge provides a grip for automated counting machines and for those with visual impairments.
Craftsmanship Details
Standard industrial grade minting. The relief is shallow to allow for high-speed production and stackability, showing efficient, modern machine craftsmanship rather than hand-wrought artistry.
Authentication Indicators
Alignment of the Thai script, specific architectural details of the temple spires, and the characteristic grey-silver hue of cupro-nickel planchets. Weight and diameter are consistent with Royal Thai Mint specifications.
Origin & Manufacturing
Thailand, manufactured at the Royal Thai Mint in Pathum Thani Province. The mint follows international minting standards for consistency and security.
Era & Period
Modern Era / Reign of King Rama IX (The Great). This specific design reflects the later period of Bhumibol Adulyadej's 70-year reign.
Age Estimate
Circa 2006 (BE 2549). This is determined precisely by the Thai Buddhist Era date inscribed on the reverse above the temple spires.
Cultural Significance
The Baht is deeply tied to the Thai identity; showing disrespect to the coin (such as stepping on it) is a serious offense in Thailand because it bears the image of the King.
Condition Notes
Circulated condition. Shows light surface scratches (bag marks) and minor tarnish consistent with general use. No significant corrosion or rim dings. Grade: Very Fine (VF).
Value Estimate
Face value is 1 Thai Baht (approx. $0.03 USD). As a common circulated date, numismatic value is negligible ($0.10 - $0.25 USD) for a single specimen.
Care & Maintenance
As a cupro-nickel coin, it requires little maintenance. To preserve the remaining luster, avoid acids or abrasive polishes. Store in a dry environment in a non-PVC coin flip if keeping for a collection.
Similar Pieces
Pre-1960 Thai Baht coins (which contained actual silver), the larger 5 Baht (bimetallic), and the 10 Baht (gold-colored center with silver-colored ring).
Interesting Facts
Despite its silver appearance, the 1 Baht coin has not contained actual silver since the early 1960s. The temple depicted, Wat Phra Kaew, is considered the most sacred Buddhist temple in Thailand.