The Bank of Thailand (BOT) has launched the new 20-baht banknote, made from polymer. The new note, put into circulation on 24 March 2022, is much like the previous 20-baht note in visual design and colouring but is printed on a more durable substrate and has some new security features. It is the first banknote in the country’s latest (17th) series.
Polymer makes the most widely used denomination more durable
The 20-baht paper note is Thailand’s most widely used denomination, making it more prone to becoming worn out and soiled than other denominations, the BOT explains. By switching to a polymer substrate, the 20-baht note will last much longer. In fact, the BOT states, “The 20-baht paper banknotes can be circulated for about 2-3 years … While the 20-baht polymer banknotes are expected to be circulated for about 5-7.5 years.”
Same visual design, some new security features
To view the new Thai 20-baht banknote up-close.
The dimensions, design and colouring of the 20-baht note are unchanged, but the new note includes advanced security features as well as tactile markings for the visually impaired.
Thailand’s new polymer 20-baht banknote:
Front side
Back side
The new security features will better prevent counterfeiting and include the following:
- Two clear windows which can be seen through from both sides.
- Color-shifting from translucent yellow to red in the lower clear window.
- A small embossed numeric “20” in the upper clear window, designed to help the visually-impaired identify the denomination by touch.
- Raised (tactile) printing in the area of the royal emblem, the word “รัฐบาลไทย”
(Thai Government), denomination in words and numerals.
The paper version of the 20-baht note remains in circulation and is valid as legal tender.
Sources:
Bank of Thailand
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