5 Sene - Tanumafili II Silver Proof issue

Samoa's 1974 proof series was produced to coincide with the country's growing engagement with international numismatic markets in the early independence period — Samoa had become fully independent from New Zealand administration in 1962. The .925 silver proofs were struck for collector distribution rather than circulation, as the standard 5 sene was issued in copper-nickel.

Tanumafili II held the position of O le Ao o le Malo — head of state — from independence until his death in 2007, making him one of the longest-serving heads of state of the twentieth century.