The Cohiba Lanceros holds a distinguished place in Cuban cigar history as the original Cohiba vitola. Before it became known commercially as the Lanceros, this cigar was produced under the designation "Diplomatic Cohiba" and served a very specific, prestigious purpose in Cuban statecraft.
Origins and Purpose
Released in 1966, these cigars were created expressly as diplomatic gifts presented by Cuba's Head of State to visiting heads of state and other world leaders. This practice represented one of the most exclusive methods of cigar distribution imaginable—these cigars were not available for purchase anywhere in the world and could only be obtained through official diplomatic channels as tokens of international relations and goodwill.
Specifications
| Factory Name | Laguito No.1 |
| Ring Gauge | 38 |
| Length | 192 mm (7½″) |
| Official Weight | 10.29 g |
| Construction | Handmade |
| Status | 1966 Release |
Band Evolution
The presentation of these diplomatic gifts evolved over time. From 1964 through 1969, the cigars featured distinctive gold-on-white custom bands alongside general purpose bands designed specifically for diplomatic presentation. Beginning in 1969, the standard Cohiba bands that collectors recognize today were introduced and used for these official gifts.
Packaging
Various packaging formats were employed for these diplomatic presentations, with the specific presentation often tailored to the occasion and the recipient.
Related Releases
- Cohiba Lanceros
- Cohiba Lanceros Siglo XXI Millennium Humidor
- Cohiba Lanceros VIP Gifts
- Cohiba Lanceros Guayasamin I Humidor
- Cohiba Lanceros 35 Aniversario Humidor
- Cohiba Lanceros Guayasamin II Humidor
- Cohiba Lanceros Tributo