Burmese Opium Weights

"Before the advent of a regular currency, transactions in the bazaars were made by weighing out lumps of metal, 'ganza', and in order to ensure that the correct amount of ganza was weighed out, the bullion merchants and shopkeepers used a series of weights that had been officially approved. The origin of these weights has not been established, but it is thought that they were introduced to Thailand by the Burmese when they conquered Ayudhya in the 16th century. As collectible pieces they are now commonly known as Siamese Opium Weights due to their use in the opium trade." (M. Robinson and L.A. Shaw, The Coins and Banknotes of Burma, p.31)

To or Chinthe

This figure is frequently found outside temples as a guardian. Square base variety. Shown here are standard weights, of dark-toned brass. Tallest piece is about 55mm (2.25 inches) tall.