I think for most folks who are looking to improve their quality of life Laos would be a giant leap backwards,Thailand has a lot going for it compared to its neighboring countries but it keeps throwing new BS at expats which forces them to look for other options,it’s all done to protect itself but it’s never ending and they are totally ok with that because others will quickly fill the shoes of those who flee
Keep your money in your home country,the answer to your question is savings is not income so just leave your money in OZ and use your atm card when you need it
Every once in a while you hear of bank employees wiping out foreigners bank accounts so if anything keep the bulk of your savings home and start a small checking account in Thailand
im not familiar with Ancient coins at all, i have a nice English coin from 1745 that id trade you for the thai coin if your interested,the english stole the coins from the Spanish in Lima which they have the mark