Western Samoa Stamps Appraisal

International Postal Collectors League Western Samoa 23K Gold Foil First Day Cover

This item is a First Day Cover (FDC) issued by the International Postal Collectors League, dated May 29, 1979, from Western Samoa. The primary feature is a 23-karat gold foil stamp depicting a historical sailing vessel, likely the whaling ship Charles W. Morgan, as indicated by the accompanying text. The stamp is meticulously embossed on gold foil, featuring perforated edges and a high level of relief detail that captures the complex rigging and sails of the ship. The gold stamp is mounted on a vibrant red background inside a decorative border featuring a blue crest with maritime and crowns motifs. To the right, a circular 'First Day of Issue' postmark from Apia, Western Samoa, is clearly visible, overlapping a traditional adhesive stamp. The cover is housed within a light blue collector's album page that includes lengthy historical text regarding South Pacific exploration and whaling. The physical condition appears excellent with no visible tears or heavy oxidation on the gold leaf; however, there is minor yellowing on the paper envelope corner. This piece represents a late 20th-century philatelic collectible designed for the high-end numismatic and postal market, emphasizing craftsmanship through precious metal foil application and formal documentation.