A small Polynesian coin featuring a cocoa bean

Samoa is a small Polynesian country in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. Previously known as “Western Samoa”, it is to that side of “American Samoa”. In 1997 the country became “The Independent State of Samoa”. The country was originally settled by the Lapita people around four thousand years ago.

There are two main varieties of cacao beans used to make chocolate. The Criollo variety is known for its fruity and floral characteristics. The Trinitario variety is known for its spicy notes and robust flavor. One of the rarest types of Trinitario is the Samoan Trinitario, which attracts a premium price. Cocoa beans were introduced into Samoa from the Amazon in the 1880s. While many around the world like a nightcap of hot chocolate, in Samoa, growing, grinding and drinking it together is a whole family experience.

In Samoan currency, 100 Sene = 1 Tala. In 1974 a series of coins was introduced, each featuring native plants:

• 1 Sene: Coconut
• 2 Sene: Cocoa Pods
• 5 Sene: Pineapple
• 10 Sene: Taro Plant
• 20 Sene: Breadfruit
• 50 Sene: Banana Tree
• 1 Tala: Palm Tree

The obverse of the coin features Malietoa Tanumafili II, who led his nation from colonialism to freedom and independence.

Known as His Highness Malietoa Tanumafili II, and also called Susuga, he held the title of one of Samoa’s four paramount chiefs and the head of state, or O le Ao o le Malo (the first warrior). Often referred to as the King of Samoa, he always preferred the traditional tribal title of Malietoa.

One of the longest-ruling heads of state, Tanumafili II ruled from 1940 – 2007