Lao Issara Government Currency & Banknote Values

The Lao Issara Government series of Laos in the World Currency contains 5 distinct entries.

Laos had been a French protectorate since 1904. During World War II, the country was occupied by Japanese forces. Following Japan’s surrender on 15 August 1945, Prince Phetsarath attempted to convince King Sisavang Vong to unify the country and invalidate France’s treaty because the French had been unable to protect the Lao from the Japanese. However, King Savang intended to have Laos return to its former status as a French colony.

In October 1945, Lao Issara (Free Laos, LIG) supporters lead by

Prince Phetsarath dismissed King Sisavang Vong from the throne and formed a new government, which lasted until the French retook control of the county in the spring of 1946, restoring King Sisavang Vong to the throne and forcing the Lao Issara leadership to flee into exile in Thailand.