10 shillings 1963

Common. The 1963 issue of Western Samoa 10 Shillings notes was a standard, early-issue banknote from the Bank of Western Samoa with substantial print runs typical of general circulation currency. While the Pick 13a variety may be somewhat less frequently encountered in the collector market compared to later issues, the note is not scarce; PMG 67 EPQ examples command modest premiums based on condition rather than inherent rarity. No documented short print runs, recalls, or significant production anomalies are associated with this Pick number.

Issued in 1963 by the newly established Bank of Western Samoa, this note commemorates a pivotal moment in the territory's path toward independence (achieved in 1962). The imagery reflects Samoan cultural identity and economic foundations: the outrigger canoe represents the maritime heritage and traditional fishing economy, while the fale (traditional meeting house) symbolizes the social and political structures central to Samoan governance and community life. The bilingual inscriptions in Samoan and English demonstrate the colonial legacy while asserting national identity during the early independence era.

The obverse features the coat of arms of Western Samoa—comprising a cross, three stars, and circular wreaths symbolizing Christian faith and the three districts of Upolu—positioned within a circular medallion on the left side. The right side presents a romantic maritime vignette of a traditional double-hulled outrigger canoe (va'a) with multiple passengers navigating calm turquoise waters, with a dramatic mountain range across the horizon, evoking Samoa's nautical traditions and island geography. The reverse showcases the iconic Samoan fale, a large open-sided structure with a distinctive conical thatched roof supported by substantial wooden posts, surrounded by coconut palms and set against a tropical coastal landscape. Both sides employ ornate geometric border designs and circular decorative medallions with radiating line patterns, framing the central vignettes. Denomination numerals (10/-) and bilingual text appear in all four corners of each side.

FRONT SIDE: 'FALE TUPE O SAMOA I SISIFO' (Bank of Western Samoa) / '10/-' (10 Shillings) / 'TUPE FA'ATAGAINA - MALO O SAMOA I SISIFO' (Legal tender in Western Samoa) / 'SEFULU SELENI' (Ten Shillings in Samoan) / 'TEN SHILLINGS' (English denomination) / 'BANK OF WESTERN SAMOA' (English bank name) / 'MANAGER' (signature line designation) / '194581' (serial number). BACK SIDE: 'FALE TUPE O SAMOA I SISIFO' (Bank of Western Samoa) / '10/-' (10 Shillings, appearing on left and right) / 'TEN SHILLINGS' (English denomination) / 'SEFULU SELENI' (Ten Shillings in Samoan) / 'BANK OF WESTERN SAMOA' (English bank name).

This note was produced using traditional intaglio engraving, evidenced by the sharp, finely detailed line work visible throughout the design, particularly in the intricate border patterns, geometric medallions, and scenic vignettes. The multi-layered complexity of the engraved elements and the crisp impression quality typical of PMG 67 EPQ examples indicate professional security printing from this era. While the specific printer is not definitively documented in standard catalogs for Pick 13a, these notes were likely produced by a European security printer such as Waterlow & Sons or De La Rue, firms commonly engaged by newly independent Commonwealth nations for currency production during the 1960s.

Pick 13a represents the standard 1963 issue without significant known varieties. The visible serial number '194581' appears to be from the normal serial range. No overprints, signature varieties, or other documented variants that would differentiate this example from other specimens of the same Pick number are apparent from the images provided. Collectors should note that the PMG 67 EPQ grade represents near-gem uncirculated quality with excellent paper quality and centering, which is the notable distinguishing feature of this particular specimen rather than a cataloged variety.