Samoa Stamps
Identification, history, popular series & stamp values
About Samoa Stamps
Samoa, located in the Polynesian subregion of Oceania, possesses a postal history marked by periods under German administration followed by New Zealand mandate and trusteeship. Stamps from this period often feature English alongside Samoan, reflecting the linguistic environment. The transition to independence in 1962 solidified its sovereign postal authority, though earlier issues reflect its complex colonial administrative history, including the period as Western Samoa.
Issuer Overview
- Region:
- Oceania
- Subregion:
- Polynesia
- Issuing period:
- 1877 – 2017
- Languages:
- Samoan, English
- Currency:
- WST
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Stamp Catalogs
Samoa stamps are listed in the following catalogs:
Popular Samoa Stamp Series
King Malietoa Laupepa Issues (1877-1900)
Early issues featuring the Samoan King, often overprinted or surcharged, reflecting the early postal administration.
German Samoa Issues (1900-1914)
Stamps of Germany overprinted 'Samoa' or 'Samoa G.R.' (German Reich), and later definitive issues for the colony.
New Zealand Occupation/Mandate Issues (1914-1962)
New Zealand stamps overprinted 'Samoa' or 'Western Samoa', and later definitive issues for the territory.
Samoa Stamp Value Overview
Value Notes: Early issues, especially those from the German and New Zealand occupation periods with specific overprints or errors, can be quite valuable. Later definitive issues are generally affordable, while some commemorative sets can fetch higher prices.
How to Identify Samoa Stamps
Key features to look for when identifying Samoa stamps:
- 1 Look for the country name 'SAMOA', 'WESTERN SAMOA', or overprints on German or New Zealand stamps.
- 2 Early issues often feature portraits of King Malietoa Laupepa or German imperial eagles.
- 3 Later issues frequently depict local scenes, wildlife, and cultural elements.
Related Issuers & Topics
Explore stamps from related regions and historical entities:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Samoa stamps?
Samoa stamps are postage stamps issued by the postal authorities of Samoa, covering periods from its early monarchy, through German and New Zealand administration, to its independence as Western Samoa and later Samoa. They reflect the nation's rich history and cultural heritage.
Are Samoa stamps valuable?
The value of Samoa stamps varies significantly. Early issues, particularly those from the German and New Zealand occupation periods with specific overprints, varieties, or errors, can be quite valuable, ranging from tens to thousands of dollars. More common modern issues are generally inexpensive, often costing less than a dollar, but certain commemorative sets or first-day covers can hold higher value.
How can I identify Samoa stamps?
You can identify Samoa stamps by looking for the country name 'SAMOA' or 'WESTERN SAMOA' printed on them. Earlier issues may be German or New Zealand stamps with 'Samoa' or 'Western Samoa' overprints. Visual cues like portraits of King Malietoa Laupepa, German imperial eagles, or later depictions of Samoan culture and nature are also key. For precise identification, use a stamp identifier app by scanning the stamp.
Which catalogs list Samoa stamps?
Samoa stamps are extensively listed in major international stamp catalogs, including Scott (USA), Michel (Germany), and Stanley Gibbons (UK). These catalogs provide detailed information on issues, varieties, and estimated values.
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