Silver tiger tongue money was an extraordinary form of ancient currency from the Lan Xang and Lan Chang kingdoms—territories that include parts of Thailand and Laos today. This monetary system was comprised up of two primary coin types:
- Lat coins, which were lower-denomination coins made of copper or bronze, were used for everyday transactions.
- Silver Tiger Tongue (Hoi) coins, which were higher-value silver ingots with a distinctive long, flat, and slightly curved shape, were reserved for larger transactions and ceremonial uses.
Together, these ancient Asian coins provided a flexible system that allowed for everyday commerce with high-value trade and sacred offerings.
Historical Context
Lan Xang was founded in the 14th century by King Fa Ngum. Here are some key points about its history:
Standardization
King Fa Ngum introduced new mass units and geometric weights as 1.23 grams or 12.3 grams to establish consistent financial standards. The Mekong River valley maintained these standards until the 19th century.
Political Evolution
- Lan Xang evolved into the Lan Chang Kingdom.
- Later, it split into the kingdoms of Vientiane, Luang Prabang, and Champasak.
- Despite political changes, both lat coins and silver tiger tongue money were in use for centuries.
Coinage Systems: Lat Coins and Silver Tiger Tongue (Hoi) Coins
Lat Coins
Lat coins (Lao: ເງິນລາດ) are bar-shaped coins made of copper or bronze. They served as the everyday currency in markets and small transactions which was reflected by their name as Lat is a Lao term for market. They are also known as boat money, heua money, and ngern heua.
Key Characteristics of Lat Coins
- Generally, cast in closed molds.
- May feature simple mint marks or remain unmarked.
- The value of lat coins was determined by assessing their weight and composition.
Silver Tiger Tongue Coins
Silver tiger tongue money, or Hoi coins, refers to the higher denomination coins. These were known for their unique tiger tongue shape. Their features and production included:
Production Process
Silver was mined from local deposits, particularly the area east of Luang Prabang. After it was refined, the silver was melted and poured into long, narrow molds. While the silver was still molten, artisans stamped the silver ingots with symbols that authenticated their value.
Distinctive Markings
- Elephants were utilized to represent strength and royal authority.
- Fish markings were made to symbolize abundance.
- Chakra (wheel) was used to reflect the nation’s Buddhist influence and the cycle of life.
- Na (snakes) were imprinted to denote protection and power.
The Hoi coins, or silver tiger tongues, were used in high-value transactions, as well as religious offerings, and important state functions.
Trade and Routes
Trade in Lan Xang and Lan Chang kingdoms was both diverse and extensive. Here’s a simplified breakdown:
Local and Regional Trade
Everyday Transactions and Commerce
- Lat coins were used for basic transactions of lower value, like purchasing food, textiles, household goods, and other daily basics.
- Where lat coins circulated less, as in rural areas, barter generally complemented these exchanges.
High-Value Transactions
- Silver tiger tongue money was used for larger purchases, such as buying land, livestock, and luxury goods (like silk and spices).
- These ingots were also used to pay tributes and taxes, with their stamped markings ensuring proper valuation.
International Trade and Trade Routes
The location of the Lan Xang kingdom enabled it to develop large and vast trade networks, such as:
Overland Routes
- Northern routes connected the kingdom to the Lanna Kingdom and Burma, continuing to reach regions in Yunnan, China.
- Southern routes facilitated movement between Luang Prabang, Vientiane, and other regions in modern-day Thailand.
River Routes
The Mekong River was a vital artery of the Lan Xang kingdom, linking major cities and helping transport goods across Southeast Asia.
These overland and river routes allowed the kingdom to export silver and other metals and crafted goods, expanding its economic influence.
Religious and Cultural Significance
Religious Offerings
Both lat coins and silver tiger tongue coinage played a role in the spiritual life of the Lan Xang kingdom:
- Silver Tiger Tongue money was donated as offerings that supported religious activities, helped fund temple construction, and maintained sacred sites.
- Donating these coins was a way to demonstrate piety, linking material wealth with spiritual commitment.
Cultural Symbolism
The imagery on the coins reinforced local cultural values:
Elephants
In a region known as the “Land of a Million Elephants,” the repeated imagery of these animals symbolized strength, royal power, and divine favor.
Integration of Beliefs
The mix of Buddhist symbols (like the chakra) and local mythological motifs connected economic activity with broader cultural and religious ideals.
Silver Tiger Tongue money and lat coins are dynamic artifacts that capture Southeast Asia’s economic ingenuity, cultural richness, and religious devotion. Their distinct, meaningful symbols and flexible use in trade—from everyday market purchases to international commerce and sacred offerings—demonstrate a sophisticated monetary system that bridged practical needs with deep cultural values.
