Section 241 — Altering genuine currency
English translation
Whoever alters genuine currency, whether a coin, a banknote, or any other thing, so that it differs from the genuine, shall be liable to imprisonment from one year to fifteen years and a fine from twenty thousand baht to three 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 section covers altering, as opposed to counterfeiting, genuine currency: the offender starts with real money and changes it so that it differs from the genuine, typically to raise its apparent denomination. It is distinct from Section 240, which covers making counterfeit currency from scratch, and carries a somewhat lower penalty of one to fifteen years with a fine. The offence sits within the graded currency scheme, alongside importing under Section 242, possession for circulation under Section 243, and passing later-discovered counterfeits under Section 244. Foreign currency is dealt with separately under Section 247.
Why this matters in practice
Exposure is one to fifteen years plus a fine of 20,000 to 300,000 baht. The dividing line from counterfeiting under Section 240 matters because the two carry different penalties: altering starts from genuine money, while counterfeiting produces a fake outright. As with counterfeiting, altering and any subsequent passing of the altered money are typically charged as separate offences. Anyone accused should have the physical evidence examined to establish whether the item was genuinely altered currency.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between Sections 240 and 241?
Section 240 covers making counterfeit currency from scratch, while Section 241 covers altering genuine currency so that it differs from the real thing. Section 241 carries a lighter penalty.
What is the penalty for altering currency in Thailand?
Under Section 241, imprisonment from one to fifteen years together with a fine of 20,000 to 300,000 baht.