Temple Medal - Phra Naresuan the Great ND

Reverse

Prayer inscription in Mon/Khmer

Edge

Plain

Comment

Thai temple, Khanon Luang Subdistrict, Bang Pa-in District, Ayutthaya Province

RIAN (MEDAL IMAGES)
Rian images have existed since the past century and they might have been created after Thailand started the usage of the flat coin curreny. From the Sukhothai period to early Bangkok period, Thailand was using bullet-shaped coins known as Pod Duang. In the 17th century, a Thai minister visited Singapore and reported to King Rama III on the usage of flat copper coins upon his return. The flat coin curreny was subsequently implemented in Thailand and in the 18th century the usage of Pod Duang 'coins' officially fazed out. Medal image amulets might had been created following the implementation of flat coin curreny, one of the first Rian/medal image amulets, were created in AD1897. There are many types and many names given to these images, there are many examples of popular types among collectors.