Wat Bhumintr on 1 Baht Banknote

Temples that appear on Thai banknotes reflect the studied significance of national identity. Among such important temples is one noted for its outstanding architectural attributes and exceptional murals: significant enough for such qualities to be reproduced and printed onto a 1 Baht banknote during World War II. The temple in question is none other than Wat Bhumintr of Nan Province.

Although no documentary evidence is available to account for the reasoning behind the government of the day's decision to designate Wat Bhumintr as the favored design for the banknote, some interesting information has emerged. The Thai government determines banknote designs, although the design of the banknote itself differs from generic printing patterns, so designers must be knowledgeable about the printing of banknotes as aside from general printing.

The Wat Bhumintr design embossed on banknotes is the fifth among 15 designs used throughout Thai history to embellish banknotes. However, for this fifth design, the Thai government appointed the Japanese to design and print the notes in Japan, in a gesture to strengthen ties between the two nations.

In effect, therefore, banknotes displaying Wat Bhumintr have historical significance in reflecting past relationships between Thailand and Japan.