Section 240 — Counterfeiting currency
English translation
Whoever counterfeits currency, whether counterfeited as a coin, a banknote, or any other thing that the government issues or authorises to be issued as currency, shall be liable to imprisonment for life, or imprisonment from ten years to twenty years, and a fine from two hundred thousand baht to four hundred thousand baht.
This English translation is provided for reference only and has not yet been firm-verified — always rely on the Thai original.
Firm annotation
This is the core offence in the Title on currency offences: making counterfeit Thai currency in any form the government issues or authorises. The penalty is among the heaviest in the code, reaching life imprisonment with a mandatory fine, reflecting the state interest in the integrity of the currency. It stands at the head of a graded scheme, with Section 241 covering the altering of genuine currency, Section 242 importing counterfeits, Section 243 possessing them for circulation, and Section 247 covering foreign currency. Counterfeiting and the later passing or possession of the same notes are treated as separate offences with distinct criminal intents.
Why this matters in practice
Exposure is severe, up to life imprisonment plus a fine of 200,000 to 400,000 baht, and courts treat currency counterfeiting as a serious offence against the state rather than an ordinary property crime. Where a defendant both makes and then passes or holds the notes, the acts are usually charged as separate counts, increasing overall exposure. Because intent to produce a thing that passes as genuine currency is central, disputes often turn on whether the item was truly capable of passing as money. Specialist defence is essential given the penalty level.
Frequently asked questions
What is the penalty for counterfeiting money in Thailand?
Under Section 240, life imprisonment or ten to twenty years in prison, together with a fine of 200,000 to 400,000 baht.
Is making and then spending counterfeit money one offence or two?
They are generally treated as separate offences, because counterfeiting and passing or possessing the notes involve different criminal intents and can be punished as distinct counts.