American Samoa Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About American Samoa Stamps
American Samoa is an unincorporated territory of the United States located in Polynesia within Oceania. Its postal system has been administered under the authority of the U.S. Post Office Department and later the USPS since the islands were ceded to the United States in 1900. Stamps issued for American Samoa primarily feature English text and utilize U.S. currency denominations, reflecting its status as a U.S. territory, though some earlier issues also bore local names. The territory's postal history is intrinsically linked to the broader administrative and political evolution of American Samoa under U.S. governance.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Oceania
- Subregion:
- Polynesia
- Issuing period:
- 1900 – present
- Languages:
- English, Samoan
- Currency:
- USD
- Parent issuer:
- United States
Stamp Catalogs
American Samoa stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular American Samoa Stamp Series
Overprinted U.S. Stamps (Early 20th Century)
Early issues for American Samoa were U.S. stamps overprinted with 'AMERICAN SAMOA' or 'SAMOA' to denote their use in the territory.
Definitive Issues (Mid-20th Century onwards)
Later issues often featured designs relevant to American Samoa's culture, flora, fauna, and history, while still being U.S. stamps.
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American Samoa Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Most modern American Samoa stamps are readily available and inexpensive. Early overprinted issues, especially those with rare varieties or in fine condition, can command significant prices. Errors or scarce cancellations can also increase value.
How to Identify American Samoa Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying American Samoa stamps:
- 1 Look for 'AMERICAN SAMOA' or 'SAMOA' overprints on U.S. stamps for early issues.
- 2 Later issues will typically have 'AMERICAN SAMOA' printed as part of the stamp design, often alongside 'USA' or 'UNITED STATES'.
- 3 Denominations are in U.S. currency (cents and dollars).
Related Issuers & Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are American Samoa stamps?
American Samoa stamps are postage stamps issued for use in the U.S. unincorporated territory of American Samoa. Historically, these were U.S. stamps overprinted for the territory, and later, stamps specifically designed for American Samoa but still part of the U.S. postal system.
Are American Samoa stamps valuable?
The value of American Samoa stamps varies. Many modern issues are common and inexpensive. However, early overprinted U.S. stamps, especially those with specific varieties, errors, or in pristine condition, can be quite valuable, ranging from tens to hundreds of dollars.
How can I identify American Samoa stamps?
American Samoa stamps can be identified by the explicit inscription 'AMERICAN SAMOA' or 'SAMOA' (on early overprints). They will also feature U.S. currency denominations. Using a stamp identifier app can help quickly identify these stamps by scanning an image of the stamp.
Which catalogs list American Samoa stamps?
American Samoa stamps are listed in major stamp catalogs such as Scott (under United States Possessions or American Samoa), Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information on issues, varieties, and estimated values.
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