Ancient Maldivian Cowrie Shells: A Tale of Trade, Betrayal, and Redemption in (Siam) Thai History
- Ibrahim Rasheed
- Mar 23
- 3 min read
Updated: Mar 31
Cowrie shells, which were not just currency but also symbols of wealth and power in ancient Thailand, adding cultural depth to the compensation.
King Ramkhamhaeng inherited a burgeoning kingdom, which he developed into a prominent Tai state in 13th-century Southeast Asia. His foreign trade policy was marked by a free trade system without taxes on trade activities, as demonstrated by the Ramkhamhaeng Stele and supported by various historical records (Searching in History: Sukhothai Economy of Ramkhamhaeng). This policy, which involved no taxes on income or imports, stimulated merchant activity and productivity, establishing Sukhothai as a lively economic hub. The kingdom's robust agricultural foundation, especially in rice production, along with its ceramics industry, known as sangkhalok ware, were crucial to its success. Kilns in Sukhothai and Sawankhalok produced ceramics that were exported to areas like the Philippines and Indonesia, as noted in Searching in History: Ramkhamhaeng: Great Sukhothai King.
The lack of taxes on trade was a hallmark of Ramkhamhaeng's rule, as mentioned in the Ramkhamhaeng Inscription and corroborated by Facts and Details: SUKHOTHAI AND EARLY THAI KINGS. This tax-free policy applied to individuals traveling for trade, as well as trading elephants, horses, silver, and gold, further encouraging economic activity. This approach contrasts with later periods and underscores Ramkhamhaeng's emphasis on economic accessibility.
Ramkhamhaeng dispatched missions to Ceylon (Sri Lanka) to acquire Buddhist scriptures and holy relics. Monks from Sri Lanka were invited to Sukhothai to promote Theravada Buddhism, as mentioned in Searching in History: Ramkhamhaeng: Great Sukhothai King and Sukhothai Kingdom - Wikipedia. These interactions, particularly the establishment of Sri Lankan monks in Nakhon Si Thammarat, indicate close connections, possibly enabling indirect trade through religious networks.
For example, the impact of Ceylonese arts on Sukhothai stupas and Buddha images, as noted in Political Relations (Thailand) - Sri Lankan Embassy, reflects a wider cultural link that might have included trade in religious artifacts or goods. The extent of Buddhist influence from Sri Lanka not only shaped Sukhothai's religious environment but may have facilitated some trade in religious artifacts or goods, although this remains speculative due to the absence of direct trade records. This cultural exchange, recorded in sources like Sri Lanka and Thailand consolidates Theravada Buddhist ties - Sri Lankan Embassy, highlights the profound historical connections that could have had economic impacts.
The Affair: A Legendary Conflict
According to legend, King Ramkhamhaeng was involved in an affair with one of King Ngam Muang's wives, identified in some accounts as Lady Ua Chiang Saen. The Chiang Mai Chronicle mentions this affair, noting that it created tension between the two rulers (World History: Ramkhamhaeng the Great, The affair is depicted as a historical event, with Lady Ua Chiang Saen bearing resentment towards King Ngam Muang, which allowed Ramkhamhaeng to seduce her. This story is part of Thai folklore, illustrating the personal and political dynamics of that era.
Mediation by King Mangrai
King Mangrai's role as a mediator is well-recorded in historical narratives. In 1287, he reportedly facilitated peace between King Ngam Muang and King Ramkhamhaeng after their conflict, resulting in a "Strong pact of friendship" among the three monarchs (Mangrai - Wikipedia). This mediation is also honored by the Three Kings Monument, highlighting a significant diplomatic effort to uphold regional stability. The Chiang Mai Chronicle and other sources, such as the Three Kings Monument narrative, reveal that Mangrai's intervention was vital in settling the dispute, consistent with his reputation as a diplomatic leader (Three Kings Monument CHIANG MAI — distraught pigeon).
Compensation: The 990,000 Cowrie Shells
The specific detail of compensation, 990,000 cowrie shells, found in historical records . Cowrie shells were a significant form of currency in ancient Thailand, used in trade networks across Asia and Africa (Shell money - Wikipedia). They were durable, easily transportable, and difficult to counterfeit, making
them ideal for large transactions. The figure of 990,000 shells suggests a substantial payment, reflecting the gravity of the offense and the diplomatic resolution. However, the exact amount is not verified in widely accessible online sources, suggesting it may be a legendary detail preserved in specific historical texts like the Chiang Mai Chronicle, which is not fully available online.
To illustrate the use of cowrie shells, consider the following table comparing their historical significance:
Historical Context of Cowrie Shells
Cowrie shells, specifically the Cypraea moneta (money cowrie), were among the earliest forms of currency used globally, including in ancient China. These shells, found in Maldives . were prized for their durability, portability, and uniform shape, making them suitable for trade. In China, their use as currency dates back to at least the Shang Dynasty (c. 1766–1154 BC),
In ancient times, the Maldives played a pivotal role in international trade through the use of cowrie shells, particularly the Money Cowrie (Cypraea moneta). These small, durable, and aesthetically pleasing shells were highly valued as a form of currency across various regions, including Asia and Africa. The Maldives, with its abundant supply of cowrie shells, became a central hub for their collection and distribution. Maldivians developed efficient methods for harvesting these shells, which were then exported and used in trade networks spanning continents. The widespread use of cowrie shells highlights the Maldives' significant contribution to ancient maritime trade routes and the early global economy.