Today’s Note comes from the Polynesian archipelago of The Independent State of Samoa. It has an unusual history in that Germany and The United States wanted Samoa for a refueling stop for coal-fired ships. This caused a unique situation to develop. Germany began showing interest so the United States laid claim to it just as Britain began sending troops there to stake their own claim. Germany, The United States and Great Britain sent large warships to Samoa for what was to be a large scale 3 way war until a massive storm destroyed the ships upon arrival ending the military conflict. The Treaty of Berlin split Samoa into American Samoa, and Western Samoa. Great Britain gave up her claims in return for Fiji and other Melanesian territories. In 1997 both Western Samoa and American Samoa became one territory. During the time of the division 2 currencies were circulated both looked exactly the same with the exception one said “Western Samoa” and the other simply said “Samoa.”

The note is a 2002 issue 2 Tala. (Front) Woodcarver at right Samoian Flag at left. (Back) Hut with palms on a small island at center Arms at lower center and Samoian Flag at right. The waterark is of M. Tanumafili II (one of the paramount chiefs and the current head of state), it contains a security thread and hidden Denominations fluoresce under UV light. This note is in Uncirculated condition and carries a $6.50 book value. ENJOY!

Languages: Samoan, English
Religions: Protestant, Roman Catholic
Status: UN Country

2 Samoan Tala = 0.72600 US Dollar