Bank of Thailand announced that it put two new polymer banknotes into circulation on November 21, 2025. The new notes are in denominations of 50- and 100-Baht, bringing the total number of polymer denominations to three; a 20-Baht polymer banknote was issued in 2022.
It should be noted that 100-Baht commemorative banknote was released in April of this year. That note is printed on a paper substrate and was issued to mark the 150th anniversary of Thailand’s Ministry of Finance.
All previously issued banknotes in circulation shall remain valid.
The switch from paper to polymer
The Bank of Thailand is implementing a dual-substrate supply strategy for its new polymer denominations. A polymer substrate has been proven to be cleaner and more durable than cotton. Using a polymer substrate for denominations most commonly used in transactions makes great sense. For example, Thailand’s 100-Baht banknote counts for one-third of all banknotes in circulation, so producing the new notes in polymer will increase their longevity by several years. This strategy also saves money over time since the bank won’t need to reprint its currency as often.
Visual design: Familiar but upgraded
The Bank of Thailand acknowledges that the new 50-Baht and 100-Baht banknotes retain the same visual design and theme as the current paper banknotes in circulation. However, the new polymer notes are more vibrant in color.
Thailand’s New 100-Baht Banknote
Thailand’s New 50-Baht Banknote
While the visual designs appear almost identical to the most recent (paper) versions, some of the new security features create a new look. Read on to learn about the new security features that are built into these new banknotes.
Security features: Advanced anti-counterfeiting technology
The new 100- and 50-Baht banknotes integrate modern anti-counterfeiting security features.
The Bank points out that one distinctive feature, compared to paper banknotes, is the clear window that can be seen from both sides, with an embossed denomination marking within the window.
The 100-Baht banknote is printed on GUARDIAN™ substrate. The clear window includes a GSWITCH™ dynamic color-shifting feature that makes a flower on the note change from purple to orange when tilted. A secondary window contains a METALIX™ pentagon with a brilliant metallic sheen and a lustrous gold finish. This note also has a shadow image (a silhouette of the King) and a simulated (printed) security thread with the text 100 บาท/ 100 BAHT. Both are visible from either side of the note, when held to the light.
The 50-Baht banknote is printed on a SAFEGUARD® substrate. This note also has a shadow image (a silhouette of the King) and a simulated (printed) security thread with the text 50 บาท/50 BAHT. Both are visible from either side of the note, when held to the light.
Feature to help visually impaired consumers
The new polymer notes include tactile embossing and transparent diagonal lines to help individuals with visual impairments recognize the note’s denominations by touch. The tactile lines are on the face of each note, along the short edge. On the back of each note, embossed Braille-style markings near the printed denomination in the lower right corner help consumers identify the note’s value.
Sources/References:
Bank of Thailand
Banknote Industry News
Banknote News
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