THAI KING'S DEATH BOOSTS NUMISMATIC SALES

Demand for His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej's memorabilia has surged to an unprecedented level in the past few weeks.

Sales of the royal mementoes have shot up as the nation mourns the passing of the King, who was much revered and venerated as a pillar of stability during his 70-year reign, on Oct 13.

People are snapping up commemorative coins, banknotes, stamps, amulets and books in remembrance of His Majesty.

Commemorative banknotes, coins and stamps and newly-minted amulets bearing the portraits of His Majesty are nearly sold out while publishers say they struggling to meet the soaring demand for commemorative books.

Market prices of these items are soaring in a way not seen in decades.

Coin and banknote collectors are the busiest they've been in several decades as people are in a flurry to collect everything related to the memories of the late King. A small Bhamahachanaka coin has now tripled in price to 13,000 baht, compared with 4,500-5,000 in the past, while a large coin is being offered at 26,000, from a previous range of 8,000-12,000, Thai Medal Association's director Sarawut Volapattavechoti said.

Even coins easily found in the market, such as a one-baht coin minted in 1962 is being sold at 25 baht from 5-7 baht before, and the 20-baht coins available at the Bureau of the Royal Thai Mint are being sold for 100 baht, he said.

"Demand is very high. The King's relationship with the people is very profound, as he was on the throne for 70 years," said Mr Sarawut.

To read the complete article, see:
Passion high for King's memorabilia (www.bangkokpost.com/business/news/1118577/passion-high-for-kings-memorabilia)

Wayne Homren, Editor

	NBS (coinbooks.org) Web