Around the Monastic World – Luang Pu Thin's Amulet Coins

"If you try too hard, you overshoot; if you're too lenient, you fall short due to lack of balance," a teaching from Luang Pho Cha Supattho of Wat Nong Pa Phong in Ubon Ratchathani. Luang Pu Thin Saranummo, the late abbot of Wat Ban Dong Muang Noi in Yang Si Surat District, Maha Sarakham Province, is known for his amulet coins created in 1977 commemorating the ordination hall dedication. The temple produced 5,000 coins with a round shape and loop handle, featuring a half-length bust image on the obverse with inscriptions honoring the abbot, and sacred mantras on the reverse.

Decades ago, along the Thai-Cambodian eastern border, Luang Pho Eia Kittiko of Wat Ban Dan in Prachuap Khiri Khan was widely recognized. His most sought-after amulet is a coin minted in 1962 commemorating his establishment as a senior monk, featuring a centered portrait with his name inscribed above and mystical yantra symbols on the reverse.

One devoted follower, Luang Pu Thanom Chantawaroh, abbot of Wat Kham Tiao Yai in Nakhon Phanom, created his first coin series called "Labh Phon Phun Thawai" (Prosperity and Abundance) to fundraise for temple restoration. The oval-shaped coin features intricate engravings and symbolic designs, carefully crafted despite being the first and only series.

In 2019, Luang Pu Pan Sampendhamma of Wat Thepnimit Chanthraesang Wanaram in Khon Kaen celebrated his 80th birthday. His devotees commissioned a special coin amulet series to raise funds for temple public facilities development. The coin features a full-length seated Buddha figure in meditation posture, with sacred mantras and inscriptions honoring the revered master's spiritual accomplishments.