Travel with us to the Southeast Asian country of Thailand. Thailand’s official name is the Kingdom of Thailand. Located on the Indochinese Peninsula, it is often referred to as the Land of Smiles because of their welcoming locals. Thailand is known for its ancient ruins, Buddha statues, tropical beaches, and royal palaces.

Our banknote this week is Thailand 20 Baht, 2014, B181b P118b. This is a paper note with Thai text. On the front shows Royal Garuda emblem, and Rama IX in the Royal House of Chakri gown. The back displays Royal Garuda emblem, Ramkhamhaeng stele, a grievance hearing with Bell of King Ramkhamhaeng, Sangkhalok ceramic wares, Lai Sue, and a statue of King Ramkhamhaeng the Great seated. The watermark is Rama IX.

Bhumibol Adulyadej is also referred to as Rama IX. Adulyadej was born in 1927 in Cambridge, Massachusetts while his father was studying at Harvard University. Adulyadej would become the ninth king of the Chakkri dynasty in Thailand, and Thailand’s longest serving monarch. He was the third longest reigning monarch in the world, reigning for 70 years and 126 days. As king, Adulyadej took the title Rama IX, and was immensely popular with his people. Although the absolute monarchy was abolished before his reign, Rama IX focused on the unity of Thailand, led an active ceremonial life, and played crucial roles in mediation during political crises.

The statue of King Ramkhamhaeng the Great seated on the Manangkhasila Asana Throne is found at Sukhothai Historical Park in Thailand. Ramkhamhaeng was the third king ruling the Sukhothai Kingdom from 1279 to 1298, although some historians say it was more likely shortly before 1318. King Ramkhamhaeng is credited with bringing the techniques to make ceramic wares from China to Thailand, which are now known as Sangkhalok ceramic wares. Ramkhamhaeng is also responsible for the creation of the Thai alphabet.

The 20 Baht banknote shows Rama IX, Royal Garuda emblem, and statue of King Ramkhamhaeng the Great seated.