What is the Bolívar Bolivares cigar size and when was it discontinued?

The Bolívar Bolivares measured 140mm × 42, a classic corona format that delivered the brand's signature full-bodied profile. This vitola disappeared from regular production in the 1970s, making surviving boxes genuine collector's items. The 42 ring gauge was standard for Cuban coronas of that era, allowing the Piloto and Vuelta Abajo tobaccos to concentrate their earthy, leathery character without overwhelming the palate.

How does the Bolívar Bolivares compare to the Bolívar Corona Junior?

Both share the brand's robust DNA, but the Bolivares predates the Corona Junior by decades and offered a slightly more refined construction typical of pre-1960s Cuban rolling. The Corona Junior, introduced later, maintains similar dimensions but uses blended tobaccos from a different agricultural period. Collectors note the Bolivares developed deeper barnyard and cedar notes with age, while modern Coronas lean more toward pepper and cocoa in their youth.

Is the Bolívar Bolivares worth buying at auction prices?

Authentic Bolivares command substantial premiums due to extreme scarcity—complete boxes rarely surface. Condition verification is critical; decades of improper storage destroy value regardless of rarity. For smoking rather than collecting, comparable aged Bolívar Petit Coronas or Coronas offer 80% of the experience at fraction of the cost. Purchase only from established auction houses with provenance documentation, as counterfeits plague discontinued Cuban vitolas.

What is the Bolívar Bolivares cigar size and when was it discontinued?

The Bolívar Bolivares measured 140mm × 42, a classic corona format that delivered the brand's signature full-bodied profile. This vitola disappeared from regular production in the 1970s, making surviving boxes genuine collector's items. The 42 ring gauge was standard for Cuban coronas of that era, allowing the Piloto and Vuelta Abajo tobaccos to concentrate their earthy, leathery character without overwhelming the palate.

How does the Bolívar Bolivares compare to the Bolívar Corona Junior?

Both share the brand's robust DNA, but the Bolivares predates the Corona Junior by decades and offered a slightly more refined construction typical of pre-1960s Cuban rolling. The Corona Junior, introduced later, maintains similar dimensions but uses blended tobaccos from a different agricultural period. Collectors note the Bolivares developed deeper barnyard and cedar notes with age, while modern Coronas lean more toward pepper and cocoa in their youth.

Is the Bolívar Bolivares worth buying at auction prices?

Authentic Bolivares command substantial premiums due to extreme scarcity—complete boxes rarely surface. Condition verification is critical; decades of improper storage destroy value regardless of rarity. For smoking rather than collecting, comparable aged Bolívar Petit Coronas or Coronas offer 80% of the experience at fraction of the cost. Purchase only from established auction houses with provenance documentation, as counterfeits plague discontinued Cuban vitolas.

Cigar Information

Bolívar Bolivares

The Bolívar Bolivares stands as a notable entry in the storied history of one of Cuba's most respected cigar marques. Named after the legendary South American liberator Simón Bolívar, this particular vitola was part of the brand's early catalog and represents the bold, full-bodied character that has long defined Bolívar cigars.

A Historical Perspective

The Bolivares was introduced prior to 1960, placing it firmly in the pre-revolution era of Cuban cigar production. During this period, the Bolívar brand had already established its reputation for producing cigars with considerable strength and depth—qualities that endeared them to experienced smokers seeking robust flavor profiles.

Production of the Bolivares continued through the early post-revolution years before being discontinued in the mid-1970s. Like many cigars from this era, its discontinuation reflects the consolidation and streamlining of Cuban cigar portfolios that occurred during the decades following the revolution.

Specifications

Name	Bolivares
Factory Name	Unknown
Ring Gauge	40
Length	126 mm (5 inches)
Official Weight	7.29 g
Construction	Handmade
Band	Standard band A
Packaging	Dress box of 25 cigars
Status	Discontinued

Construction and Presentation

As a handmade cigar, the Bolivares represented the traditional craftsmanship that defined premium Cuban production. The vitola featured the brand's standard "band A" presentation—the classic Bolívar band that collectors and enthusiasts immediately recognize. The cigars were housed in dress boxes containing 25 units, a packaging format that remains standard for many Cuban cigars today.

Collectibility and Legacy

Given its production timeline—spanning from the pre-1960 era through the mid-1970s—the Bolívar Bolivares has become a piece of Cuban cigar history. Surviving examples, should any exist in private collections, would represent not only the Bolívar brand's heritage but also the evolving nature of Cuba's cigar industry during a transformative period.

While the Bolivares is no longer in production, the Bolívar brand continues to thrive with other celebrated vitolas that carry forward the tradition of full-flavored, robust smoking experiences that have made the marque a favorite among serious aficionados.

Questions & Answers

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