PUBLIC NOTICE: WARNING ON COUNTERFEIT BANKNOTES CURRENTLY IN CIRCULATION

16th September 2026

PUBLIC NOTICE: WARNING ON COUNTERFEIT BANKNOTES CURRENTLY IN CIRCULATION

The Central Bank of Samoa advises the public of the continued circulation of counterfeit banknotes. Recent reports from members of the public and commercial banks identify counterfeit notes during processing of deposits. These notes have been submitted to the Central Bank for verification.

The public is therefore reminded to be alert when receiving or handling cash and to check banknotes carefully before accepting them.

For cotton paper banknotes, the public is encouraged to look for the following security features:

• Watermark: When the banknote is held up to the light, the profile of the late Head of State should be visible, together with a bright CBS mark.

• See-through window: On the 50 and 100 tala banknotes, the window should appear as a continuous bold strip when held up to the light.

The following (below) are the images of counterfeit banknotes with serial numbers reported in circulation which the public should be aware of:

Members of the public are advised not to use any banknote they suspect may be counterfeit. If you receive or identify a suspicious banknote, report it promptly to the Central Bank of Sāmoa or the Police. Prompt reporting will assist the relevant authorities with enquiries and help prevent further circulation of counterfeit currency.

The Central Bank of Sāmoa reminds the public to remain cautious and aware and to be alert when handling cash.

For further information, please contact the Central Bank of Samoa phone number 34150 or 34151.