Monetary Unit Samoa Currency Information

The currency of Samoa is the Samoan tālā, which is divided into 100 senninī.

The Samoan tālā has been the official currency of Samoa since 1967, when it replaced the Samoan pound.

You can exchange your money for Samoan tālā at banks, currency exchange offices, or some hotels in Samoa.

The Samoan tālā is pegged to the Australian dollar at a fixed exchange rate.

A unique perspective: Samoan Tālā

The Samoan Tala comes in various forms, including banknotes. The $100 Tala banknote is a notable example, featuring the late Malietoa Tanumafili II on its front side.

This banknote is made of polymer plastic and has a unique emerald green, multi-coloured design. The reverse side showcases the Mulivai Catholic Cathedral, a significant historical symbol of Christianity in Samoa.

The Samoan Tala is subdivided into 100 sene, with the word "tala" meaning "dollar" and "sene" meaning "cents" in Samoan. This subdivision is a fundamental aspect of the Samoan currency system.

As of November 2022, the exchange rate of the tala to US dollars is approximately $0.35 USD per tala. This rate has been relatively stable, ranging between $0.38 to $0.46 since 2010.

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The Samoan tala (WST) is divided into 100 sene, with the word "tala" being the Samoan equivalent to the English word "dollar" and "sene" to the English word "cents".

Coins in Western Samoa were introduced in 1967, featuring denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 sene, and $1, all in equal size to New Zealand coins. The 1 and 2 sene coins were struck in bronze, while the higher denominations were struck in cupro-nickel.

In 2011, the 1 and 2 and 5 sene coins were withdrawn from circulation due to high production costs and decreased use. The new coin series was introduced with reduced sizes and new shapes to reduce production costs and reflect a more modern, streamlined Samoa.

Here's a breakdown of the current and past coin denominations:

Coins have been a part of Samoan currency for decades. Prior to 1967, New Zealand coins were used in Western Samoa.

The first local coins were introduced in 1967, featuring denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 sene, and $1. These coins were designed to be similar in size to New Zealand coins.

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From 1967 to 1974, coins were made of bronze for the 1 and 2 sene denominations, while higher denominations were made of cupro-nickel. The national emblem was featured on the reverse of all coins.

In 1974, a new coin series was introduced, designed by James Berry, with a focus on locally grown food plants. The 50 sene coin got a reeded edge.

The 1984 introduction of the 1 tālā coin marked a significant change, featuring a seven-sided design and aluminum bronze material. Although it was intended to replace the $1 note, it didn't gain widespread use due to its size and weight.

A commemorative 2 Sene coin was released in 2000 to celebrate the 21st century with an FAO theme. This coin stood out from the rest.

In 2011, the 1, 2, and 5 sene coins were withdrawn from circulation due to high production costs and decreased usage. A new coin series was introduced with smaller sizes and new shapes to reduce costs.

The new coin series features the then Head of State, Tui Atua Tupua Tamasese Efi, and is themed around local culture. The new coins were designed to be more durable and resistant to wear and tear.

The 2011-series coins were struck at the Royal Australian Mint in Canberra.

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The banknotes of Samoa are a fascinating aspect of the country's currency. They have undergone several changes since independence in 1967.

The first banknotes were issued in 1967 by the Bank of Western Samoa in denominations of $1, $2, and $10. A $5 note was added in 1980.

The Central Bank of Samoa took over the issuance of banknotes in 1985, introducing new security features and designs. The $1 note was discontinued, and new denominations of $50 and $100 were introduced in 1990.

Interestingly, the $2 note issued in 1991 was the first and only fully polymer note issued by Samoa, commemorating the Golden Jubilee of Malietoa Tanumafili II as head of state.

Here's a brief overview of the 2008 banknote series:

The $50 and $100 banknotes feature De La Rue's Optiks security thread, which includes a see-through window.

The Samoan Tala is the national currency of Samoa, located among the Polynesian islands east of Australia. It's represented by the symbol WS$, SAT, ST, or T.

The Samoan Tala subdivides into 100 sene. This is a useful fact to know when converting between different denominations.

The Central Bank of Samoa is responsible for issuing and regulating the WST, managing the exchange rate of the tala with foreign currencies, and supervising commercial banks that deal in the money.

As of November 2022, a tala is equivalent to $0.35 U.S. dollars (USD). This exchange rate has held relatively steady since 2010, ranging between $0.38 to $0.46.

The Samoan Tala is made of polymer plastic, making it a durable and long-lasting currency.

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You can exchange major foreign currencies in Samoa, with services available at Faleolo International Airport, in the capital city Apia, and at some major hotels and resorts.

Money exchange offices at the international airport open to meet every arriving and departing flight, making it convenient for travelers.

Most major foreign currencies are exchangeable, so you can easily get the currency you need.

Samoan tala can also be purchased in Australia and New Zealand from most major banks, but be sure to order it well in advance as branches may need time to order it before you depart.

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