Thailand's Currency: The Baht

A Brief History

The baht has been Thailand's official currency since 1892. It replaced the tical, which had been used for centuries. The name "baht" comes from the Thai word for "weight," as it was originally a unit of weight for silver.

The baht has been pegged to the US dollar since 1984. This peg has helped to stabilize the Thai economy and has made it attractive to foreign investors.

Banknotes and Coins

Thai baht banknotes come in denominations of 20, 50, 100, 500, and 1,000 baht. The 20-baht note is brown, the 50-baht note is blue, the 100-baht note is red, the 500-baht note is purple, and the 1,000-baht note is green.

Thai baht coins come in denominations of 1, 5, 10, and 25 baht. The 1-baht coin is silver, the 5-baht coin is brass, the 10-baht coin is nickel-plated steel, and the 25-baht coin is bi-metallic.

Exchange Rates

The exchange rate between the baht and the US dollar fluctuates constantly. However, the baht has been relatively stable in recent years, trading in a range of 30-35 baht to the US dollar.

You can check the latest exchange rates on the Bank of Thailand website.

Where to Exchange Currency

You can exchange currency at banks, exchange bureaus, and hotels in Thailand. However, you will get the best rates at banks.

When exchanging currency, be sure to have your passport with you. You may also be asked to pay a small fee.

Tips for Using the Baht

Here are a few tips for using the baht in Thailand:

• Always carry small bills, as many businesses do not accept large bills.
• Be aware of counterfeit money. Counterfeit bills are common in Thailand, so be sure to check your bills carefully before accepting them.
• Don't be afraid to bargain. Bargaining is common in Thailand, so don't be afraid to ask for a lower price on goods and services.
• Use a credit card or debit card for large purchases. Credit cards and debit cards are widely accepted in Thailand, and they offer a convenient and secure way to pay for goods and services.