Revered Thai Buddhist Amulets Showcase Sacred History
Revered Thai monks created highly valued Buddhist amulets and sacred objects throughout the 20th century, with notable examples including medals commissioned in 1974 by respected abbots from temples across Thailand to commemorate spiritual
The article documents several highly valued Buddhist amulets and sacred objects created by respected monks throughout Thai history. Luang Pho Phiu Pananto, former abbot of Sri Maharaja Temple, commissioned the first Luang Pho Tan Jai medal in 1974 to commemorate the casting of a principal Buddha image. The medal features an oval-shaped design with the monk's likeness on the obverse and Khmer script surrounding a sacred yantra on the reverse, blessed on June 12, 1974.
Luang Pu Gleb Phuttharakkhito, former abbot of Talingchan Temple in Bangkok, created the Nong Sae bell in 1951 following the Indochina War period. Crafted using Suthat Temple's bell mold as a template, it was cast on July 17, 1951, and blessed after one additional rain-retreat period before distribution in 1952. The bells feature a yellowish-green hue with light brown patina and are now extremely rare.
Luang Pho Khem Khemako of Trilaksana Cemetery, Lampang Province, is renowned for his merit objects, including the 1974 Lampang Military Battalion medal. Created in collaboration with close disciple Samanera Nitiratt and Lampang military forces, 2,513 medals were produced in gold, silver, gunmetal, and copper, featuring the monk's half-image on the obverse with Pali inscriptions.
Phra Wichit Thammajarn (Tan Sorapanya), former abbot of Sri Khun Muang Temple in Chiang Khan, Loei Province, was honored with memorial medals during his cremation ceremony on March 7, 1974. These arm-shaped medals with loop handles were created in multiple metals and are now highly valued collectibles.
