Thailand is taking another major step toward modernizing its currency with the introduction of new polymer 50- and 100-baht banknotes, set to enter circulation on November 21, 2025. This move by the Bank of Thailand (BoT) aims to enhance durability, cleanliness, and security—aligning with global banking trends and technological progress.
Source: https://www.bot.or.th/
Why Thailand Is Moving to Polymer Banknotes
Polymer notes are tougher, cleaner, and longer-lasting than paper. In Thailand’s humid climate, they resist tears, moisture, and dirt, allowing them to remain in circulation far longer. This reduces printing frequency and waste, creating an environmentally conscious and cost-efficient solution.
Beyond longevity, polymer enables advanced security features that help prevent counterfeiting. The Bank of Thailand’s focus on integrity and innovation ensures the new notes not only feel more modern but also are safer to use.
Source: https://www.bot.or.th/
Enhanced Security and Smarter Design
The new polymer 50- and 100-baht banknotes feature several innovations:
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Clear window with embossed denomination – visible from both sides and easy to feel by touch.
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Color-shifting ink – changes color when tilted, making counterfeit detection simple.
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Tactile features – improve accessibility for people with visual impairments.
These upgrades build on the success of the 20-baht polymer note introduced earlier, reflecting Thailand’s gradual yet steady shift toward a secure, modern cash ecosystem.
What Remains the Same
While the material is changing, the overall design theme remains consistent with existing paper notes. Familiar portraits, colors, and sizes help users transition smoothly. The current paper banknotes remain legal tender, meaning both paper and polymer notes will circulate together without confusion or the need for exchange.
Source: https://www.bot.or.th/
Where to Get the New Notes
Starting November 21, 2025, Thais can obtain the new banknotes at commercial banks and specialized financial institutions nationwide. The 100-baht note will also be dispensed through ATMs, ensuring easy public access. According to the BoT, the new notes are compatible with vending machines, ensuring a seamless integration into everyday cash transactions.
Impact on Consumers and Businesses
For everyday users, these new notes promise cleaner wallets and more reliable cash handling. Polymer’s smooth surface resists moisture, making it ideal for Thailand’s tropical conditions. Consumers can easily verify authenticity by performing the simple “look, tilt, and feel” check.
Businesses that rely on cash—such as retailers, street vendors, and transport operators—will experience fewer damaged notes and lower replacement costs. ATMs, vending machines, and payment systems will need minor software updates to recognize the polymer substrate, but BoT’s early preparation ensures compatibility from day one.
Source: https://www.bot.or.th/
Collectible Value and Public Interest
Every currency launch sparks excitement among banknote collectors. The first-day issues of Thailand’s new polymer banknotes, especially those with low or special serial numbers, are expected to gain popularity. Collectors should handle polymer notes carefully—store them flat, avoid heat, and use protective sleeves to maintain their pristine condition.
Thailand Joins the Global Polymer Revolution
With the introduction of polymer notes across more denominations, Thailand joins over 70 countries—including the UK, Australia, and Canada—that have adopted polymer currency. The global shift is driven by security, sustainability, and hygiene advantages, aligning with Thailand’s goal of maintaining trusted and efficient currency management.
The Bank of Thailand’s announcement reinforces its commitment to ensuring the public’s confidence in cash even as digital payments grow. The polymer upgrade symbolizes a balance between innovation and tradition, where cash remains accessible, durable, and secure for all.
Key Takeaways
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Launch Date: November 21, 2025
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Denominations: 50 and 100 baht
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Material: Durable polymer
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Features: Clear window, color-shifting ink, tactile marks
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Availability: Banks and ATMs nationwide
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Compatibility: Works with existing machines and systems
The release of Thailand’s new polymer banknotes marks a major milestone in the nation’s financial evolution. It’s not just about replacing paper—it’s about enhancing trust, convenience, and long-term value in everyday transactions. Whether you’re withdrawing cash at an ATM or collecting rare serials, these polymer notes represent the future of Thai currency: stronger, cleaner, and smarter.
FAQs
1. When will the new polymer banknotes be available?
They will enter circulation on November 21, 2025, via banks and ATMs nationwide.
2. Which denominations are switching to polymer?
The 50- and 100-baht notes are the latest additions following the 20-baht polymer note.
3. Will old paper notes still be accepted?
Yes, all existing paper notes remain legal tender and will circulate alongside polymer ones.
4. What are the main benefits of polymer banknotes?
They are more durable, cleaner, and harder to counterfeit, reducing long-term costs.
5. Are vending machines ready for the new notes?
Yes, the Bank of Thailand has ensured compatibility through machine updates and testing.