What are polymer banknotes?

Polymer notes use a specialised plastic film—most commonly BOPP—that shrugs off moisture and grime, holds print detail, and supports security features like transparent windows. They typically outlive paper by a wide margin and are easier to keep clean—handy in tropical climates and bustling markets alike. Background primer here.

Why Thailand chose polymer

After rolling out a polymer 20-baht in 2022, the BoT measured an average life of ~8 years—about 4× paper—cutting new-note production by at least 350 million a year. Less waste, lower costs, better durability. That’s the calculus behind upgrading the two workhorse denominations next. Official rationale and stats come direct from the BoT’s press release.

Design & security: familiar faces, smarter substrate

The new polymer notes keep the familiar Series 17 artwork: King Maha Vajiralongkorn (Rama X) on the front; on the back, the 50-baht honours Kings Rama III & Rama IV, while the 100-baht features Kings Rama V & Rama VI. Over that, the Bank adds a clear window with embossed numerals, and colour-shifting ink that changes when tilted—both easy to check at the counter. Full visual guides for 50 baht and 100 baht.

Accessibility, properly done

Both denominations include Braille-style symbols indicating value and raised diagonal lines along both edges, making denomination recognition easier by touch. It’s practical, quick, and long overdue. The BoT highlights these as major usability upgrades in the launch notice.

Why it matters (beyond the press shot)

Polymer makes Thailand’s everyday notes tougher, cleaner and cheaper to run—without tampering with the visual identity people instinctively trust. For context: Thailand first flirted with polymer back in 1997 with a 50-baht; the modern reboot started with the 20-baht in 2022 and now covers the two busiest denominations.