Section 245 — Debasing coins
English translation
Whoever makes a coin of any metal have a value less than that fixed, by clipping, filing, or by any other means, shall be liable to imprisonment not exceeding seven years, or a fine not exceeding one hundred and forty thousand baht, or both.
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 targets debasing coins: physically reducing a metal coin's value below its fixed value by clipping, filing, or similar means, typically to profit from the removed metal while still spending the coin at face value. It is a distinct, less severely punished offence than counterfeiting currency under Section 240, because the coin itself is genuine but has been diminished. Section 246 extends liability to importing or possessing for circulation coins treated in this way. The provision protects the integrity of coinage in circulation.
Why this matters in practice
Exposure is up to seven years, or a fine up to 140,000 baht, or both. Because the coin remains genuine but reduced, the offence turns on proof that the accused physically diminished it below its fixed value. In practice this is a rare charge given modern coinage, but it remains on the books alongside Section 246, which covers circulating such coins.
Frequently asked questions
What conduct does Section 245 cover?
Reducing the value of a genuine metal coin below its fixed value by clipping, filing, or other means, so as to keep the removed metal while still using the coin.
How is Section 245 different from counterfeiting under Section 240?
Section 240 covers making fake currency, while Section 245 covers debasing a genuine coin. Section 245 carries a lighter penalty of up to seven years.