King Rama IX Ordination Medals: The Supreme Patron of Buddhism

The ordination medals of King Rama IX, His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great, represent both sacred objects of faith and significant historical artifacts. They reflect His Majesty’s deep devotion to Buddhism and his role as the Supreme Patron of the religion. The medals can be categorized into three major periods with clear historical records: the first in 1965 (B.E. 2508), commemorating royal ceremonies and the celebration of Wat Bowonniwet Vihara’s chedi; the second in 2007 (B.E. 2550), created to support the temple’s restoration and honor His Majesty’s 80th birthday; and the third in 2008 (B.E. 2551), produced for the chedi’s consecration ceremony presided over by Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn. Together, these three periods of ordination medals embody enduring faith, royal piety and the preservation of Buddhism as a cultural and spiritual heritage.