Order of Samoa

The Order of Samoa is an order of chivalry established by Malietoa Tanumafili II, King of Samoa, with the five grades customary in international diplomatic relations. The King is the Sovereign of the three Samoan orders of chivalry. The orders are awarded in his name by the politically responsible cabinet.

The grades

The Grand Order of Samoa

This is the Special Class of the Order of Samoa. An order being the First Class of another order also occurs elsewhere; for example, in Japan, where the Order of the Chrysanthemum is the First Class of the Order of the Rising Sun. Only the King of Samoa wears the insignia of this grade, which can therefore also be regarded as an insignia of office.

Premier Class or First Class

There may be no more than two living members of this class. This grade is awarded to those who have made a great contribution to the welfare of the people, the culture and the state. The grade may be awarded posthumously.

First Class

There may be ten holders of the First Class.

Companion

There may be ten Companions.

Officer

There may be fifteen Officers.

Member

There may be ten Members.

Foreign appointments are supernumerary.