태국 화폐의 발전 양상에 대한 고찰- 근대이전 시기를 중심으로

Abstract

As an instrument that indicates value of things and as a medium that enables exchange of goods, money has been the subject of the utmost interest and avarice of human beings since its birth. For the purpose of this paper, we regard the currencies that existed from the Funan Dynasty, an ancient kingdom which existed in Indochina Peninsula, until the reign of King Rama III of the Chakri Dynasty, an era which is identified as the beginning of modern times in Thailand, as ancient currencies and attempt to analyze them. Currencies not only work as an economic means but also reflect the succession of a specific culture, along with a system of letters and religion. Currencies from the cradle of an ancient civilization, such as from ancient India and China, were adopted by Thailand, until Thailand invented its own silver ingot called “Pod Duang” or “Bullet Money” during the Sukhothai era. This currency was circulated until the early Rattanakosin period. The tradition of impressing the King’s mark on its currencies to show each Dynasty’s identity, which began during the Ayuttaya period, continues up until now in Thailand. Since the history of development of Thai currencies has not been explored in Korea in earnest, we are hoping to provide readers with some academic value in that respect.