Cuban cigars have long been favoured by world leaders, celebrities and cigar connoisseurs. Their rich history, handmade craftsmanship and the way they exude luxury makes them highly desirable still to this day. Widely regarded as the finest in the world, their reputation for quality and craftsmanship has been built over centuries. If you’re considering selling your Cuban cigars, understanding their value is crucial.
What makes Cuban cigars special?
Unique climate and soil
One of the five major tobacco regions in Cuba, Vuelta Abajo in Western Cuba is regarded as the best. It has the ideal climate and soil for growing high-quality tobacco. The combination of rich, mineral-packed soil and the perfect balance of humidity, temperature and rainfall produces tobacco with a distinct and complex flavour profile that is difficult to replicate anywhere else.
Handcrafted excellence
Cuban cigars are entirely handmade (hecho a mano), following centuries-old techniques. The process involves skilled torcedores (cigar rollers) who expertly roll each cigar by hand. The knowledge and expertise of these artisans, often passed down through generations, contribute to the consistency and high quality.
Unique tobacco varieties
Cuba cultivates exclusive tobacco strains, such as the famous Corojo and Criollo leaves, which contribute to the rich, complex flavours found in Cuban cigars. These leaves are carefully selected, aged, and blended to create cigars with unique depth and character.
Government regulation and quality control
Cuba strictly regulates the production of cigars to maintain their quality. The Cuban government, through Habanos S.A., oversees every step of the process, from growing and curing to rolling and aging. This ensures that every Cuban cigar meets strict standards before being released to the market.
Ageing and fermentation process
Cuban cigars undergo a meticulous ageing and fermentation process that enhances their smoothness and complexity. The leaves are aged before rolling, and some cigars are further aged after production to develop deeper flavours. This process gives Cuban cigars their signature smoothness and balanced taste.
Legendary cigar brands
Cuba is home to some of the most iconic cigar brands in the world, including:
- Cohiba: Known for its exclusivity and exceptional quality
- Montecristo: Famous for its balanced flavours and wide appeal
- Partagás: Offers rich, full-bodied cigars with a strong character
- Romeo y Julieta: Known for its smooth and aromatic profile
- H. Upmann: A favourite among enthusiasts for its refined, mild-to-medium-bodied flavours
How can I tell if my Cuban cigars are valuable?
Brand and line
The brand significantly impacts a cigar’s value. Renowned names like Cohiba, Montecristo and Partagás often command higher prices. Within each brand, specific lines or series, such as the Cohiba Behike or Montecristo No. 2, are particularly esteemed and can fetch premium prices.
Age and condition
Ageing can enhance a cigar’s flavour profile, increasing its desirability. However, proper storage is essential. Cigars that have been well-preserved in optimal conditions are more valuable than those showing signs of dryness, mould or damage.
Rarity and limited editions
Limited edition releases or discontinued lines are especially attractive to collectors. For instance, the Cohiba 50 Aniversario humidor, released in limited quantities, has seen significant appreciation in value over time.
Packaging and presentation
Original packaging, such as boxes or humidors, can enhance a cigar’s value. Collectors often seek complete sets with authentic bands and seals intact.
By understanding these elements and consulting with our experts at Potteries Auctions, you can gain a clearer picture of what your cigars are worth in today’s market. Whether you’re a collector or considering selling, staying informed will help you make the best decisions regarding your prized cigars. Check out some of the Cuban cigars we’ve recently sold at auction below for some inspiration!
This 2017 limited edition Habanos collection book of 20 Montecristo Gran Piramides cigars sold for £3,000 at our March Fine Art sale this month.
Another popular lot at our March 2025 Fine Art auction, this Coleccion Habanos Edicion 2020 book of 20 H. Upmann Super Magnum cigars also sold for £3,000.
Lot 1155 was a Chinese Lunar New Year 2023 Year of the Rabbit limited edition Boite Nature book of 18 Cohiba Siglo de Oro cigars. Only 18,888 boxes were produced, with this being book 16,626. The lot sold for £2,400.
This box of 25 Cohiba Novedosos Robusto no. 2 Vitola Cigars with Corojo wrappers sold for £1,500.
This box of 25 Cohiba Esplendidos Churchill Vitola cigars sold for £1,600.
Lot 1152 was a box of 25 Cohiba Siglo VI Cigars that sold for £1,400.
Lot 1150 and Lot 1151 were boxes of 25 Cohiba Lanceros cigars that both sold for £800 each.
This box of 25 Bolivar Belicosos Finos Cigars sold for £460.
Part of our November 2023 Fine Art auction, this box of 24 Ramones Allones Habana Gigantes Cigars sold for £550.
Dated June 2005, this sealed box of 25 San Cristobal La Habana handmade cigars sold for £420 at our November 2023 auction.
This opened box of 25 Partagas Habana Super Partagas Cigars sold for £300.
This sealed box of 25 Romeo Y Julieta Mille Fleurs handmade cigars, dated Dec 2013, sold for £340.
How to sell Cuban cigars at auction
At Potteries Auctions, we identify and provide valuations to help get the best value for your items.
Please get in touch if you’re looking for an expert evaluation and to sell your Cuban cigar collections. Free valuation days are held every Tuesday at our Silverdale saleroom and every Thursday at our Cobridge saleroom. To book an appointment, use our online booking form here.
Due to popular demand, we have also started to offer a private valuation service for premium items. Please contact us directly to arrange an appointment by emailing amy@potteriesauctions.com.
You can also email us at enquiries@potteriesauctions.com or call us on +44 (0)1782 638100. Valuations can even be provided via WhatsApp – send some clear images of your items via the app to 07864 667940.