Historical Insight: The First Edition Amulet of Phra Ajarn Keng Athimuttako
Khaosod Online reports on the historical significance and design of the first-edition amulet of the late Phra Ajarn Keng Athimuttako, created in 1965.
According to a report by Khaosod Online, the late Phra Ajarn Keng Athimuttako, a renowned monk and former abbot of Wat Pho Chai (now Wat Si Wichai) in Nakhon Phanom province, remains a significant figure in Thai Buddhist culture. Shortly before his passing in 1965, the temple produced a first-edition commemorative amulet to distribute to merit-makers.
The amulet features an oval shape with a loop and was minted in various materials, including alpaca, silver-plated copper, gold-plated copper, and blackened copper. The exact production quantity remains unconfirmed. The front depicts a half-body portrait of the monk with the inscription 'Ajarn Keng Athimuttako,' while the reverse features a gourd-shaped yantra containing six sacred characters, along with the inscription 'Wat Pho Chai, Ban Sam Hong.'
For residents and travelers interested in Thai spiritual heritage, this piece serves as a historical artifact reflecting the local traditions of the Si Songkhram district. It is important to note that while the temple and village names have since changed—from Wat Pho Chai to Wat Si Wichai and Ban Sam Hong to Ban Sam Phong—the amulet remains a sought-after item for collectors. Those interested in acquiring or authenticating such items should consult local experts, as the exact production numbers were never officially recorded.
