Everyone knows that Cuban cigars are the most coveted of cigars, renown worldwide for their smoothness and rich flavors. So sought after are they, that there is quite a market for them, even fake ones, normally sold to unsuspecting individuals. Shopping things from a reputable dealer can dramatically reduce the chance of you being supplied with counterfeit versions. Try using a reputable mail order company or your local tobacconist which should help protect you from purchasing a box of counterfeit cigars.

If you are a serious cigar smoker, there is a very good chance that at some point you will be offered a box of Cuban cigars but would do well to examine them thoroughly first. There are a number of things you need to look for to save being caught out. There are a number of marks on the cigar box to look for including a white and green guarantee seal situated on the front left side of the box as well as a seal that has an insignia with a picture of a hat and shield. You should also see the word ‘Habanos’ printed on a white sticker affixed diagonally on the upper right corner of the cigar box; be wary if it isn’t.

These cigar boxes should also be in good condition with a clean appearance, no damage or ink that has smudged so be wary of anything that does not meet this criteria. A heat stamp is also used to imprint the word ‘Habanos’ onto the bottom of the box. It is not unusual for fake Cuban cigar boxes to have this mark on them where a paper label or a rubber stamp has been used. You should also find a factory code stamp at the bottom that is stamped in green, blue or black ink and this stamp will tell you when and where the cigars were rolled.

The cigars may have been damaged in transit even if the box wasn’t so it is worth examining them as well. There is an aroma from a Cuban cigar that is as seductive as it is unmistakable to a connoisseur of cigars so if it is possible ask to smell them! If the smell is off, or very weak, chances are you do not have a box of authentic Cuban cigars in your hands. The top row of cigars may also appear slightly flatter than the rest but they should all be facing the same way.

The caps on all the cigars should appear the same, and the foot of each cigar should be cut clean and the bands on all the cigars should be identical. Try, if possible, to examine the texture of the cigars as they should be firm but pliable and uniform in their feel. There are many factors to distinguish a real Cuban cigar but if you are a dedicated cigar lover, the last thing you would want is a fake box.