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

The Bolívar Gold Medal measured 155mm x 42 ring gauge, classified as a Cervantes vitola. Originally released before 1960, it was discontinued in the mid-1980s, making it one of the most sought-after discontinued Cuban cigars among collectors. The cigar was presented in individual aluminum tubes with distinctive gold banding, contributing to its premium positioning within the Bolívar lineup.

How does the Bolívar Gold Medal compare to other Bolívar cigars in strength and flavor?

The Gold Medal delivered the signature Bolívar full-bodied profile with pronounced earth, leather, and cedar notes, though many collectors report it developed remarkable smoothness with age. Compared to the Bolívar Royal Corona or Belicosos Finos, the Gold Medal offered a more refined, medium-to-full experience due to its slighter 42 ring gauge, allowing the wrapper's influence to dominate the blend.

Are Bolívar Gold Medal cigars still available for purchase and what do they cost?

Authentic Bolívar Gold Medals appear exclusively on the secondary auction market, commanding substantial premiums due to scarcity and age. Well-preserved boxes from the 1970s-1980s routinely sell for $500-$1,500+ depending on provenance and condition. Collectors should verify authenticity through Habanos SA documentation and provenance, as counterfeits exist. Most surviving examples require careful humidor reconditioning before smoking.

Cigar Information

Bolívar Gold Medal

Ramón ValdésEditor-in-Chief

First rolled in Havana, the Bolívar Gold Medal endures as one of the most storied discontinued cigars in the rich history of Cuban cigar making. Originally introduced before 1960, this distinguished vitola earned its prestigious name through its elegant presentation and the celebrated Bolívar brand's reputation for producing full-bodied, richly flavored smokes. After a production run spanning more than three decades, the Gold Medal was discontinued in 1992, though its legacy continued through special limited releases that kept aficionados seeking this rare cigar.

Specifications

Cigar Name	Gold Medal
Factory Name	Cervantes
Ring Gauge	42
Length	165 mm (6½″)
Official Weight	10.80 g
Construction	Handmade
Band	Standard band A
Packaging	Dress box of 10 cigars in gold foil

History and Production

The Gold Medal was among the classic Bolívar offerings that predated the Cuban Revolution, with its origins tracing back to before 1960. For over thirty years, this cigar remained a fixture in the Bolívar lineup, representing the brand's commitment to producing robust, character-driven cigars that appealed to seasoned smokers.

In 1992, the Gold Medal was removed from regular production, joining the ranks of other celebrated Cuban cigars that had been retired. However, the demand for this particular vitola never truly disappeared. Recognizing its enduring appeal, Habanos brought back the Gold Medal as a special edition release in both 2004 and 2007, giving collectors and enthusiasts another opportunity to experience this historic cigar.

The Gold Medal also found its way into the prestigious Siglo XXI Millennium Humidor, a landmark release that commemorated the turn of the century with an exceptional collection of cigars.

Presentation

True to its name, the Bolívar Gold Medal was presented with distinctive elegance. Each cigar was wrapped in gold foil and packaged in dress boxes containing 10 cigars. This luxurious presentation reflected the premium positioning of the cigar within the Bolívar portfolio and made it a visually striking addition to any humidor.

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