H. Upmann Coronas Minor

H. Upmann Coronas Minor

The H. Upmann Coronas Minor represents a fascinating chapter in Cuban cigar history—a vitola that traced its origins back to the pre-1960 era before ultimately being discontinued in 2019. This regular production cigar offered enthusiasts a compact yet satisfying smoking experience, presented in elegant aluminum tubes that evolved in design over the decades.

Historical Background

The Coronas Minor name carries an interesting legacy. Prior to approximately 2002, H. Upmann produced two separate cigars under this designation, each with slightly different specifications. The first was a machine-made version known as Coronitas-mano, measuring 40 ring gauge by 116mm, while the second was a handmade variant called Franciscanos, also at 40 × 116mm. In 2002, the brand consolidated these offerings into a single, unified size that would continue production for nearly two more decades.

Specifications

Packaging and Presentation

The Coronas Minor was offered in dress boxes containing 25 cigars, each individually housed in aluminum tubes. This packaging approach provided excellent protection for the cigars while adding a touch of sophistication to the presentation.

Band and Tube Evolution

Collectors and enthusiasts will note the visual transformations this cigar underwent throughout its production run. The pre-2002 era featured the standard band A design. Subsequently, the cigar transitioned to band B before adopting band C in 2007, coinciding with the introduction of a new tube style that modernized the cigar's appearance.

Legacy

After nearly six decades of production under various iterations, the H. Upmann Coronas Minor reached the end of its journey in 2019. Today, remaining tubes and boxes represent collectible pieces of Cuban cigar heritage, sought after by those who appreciated this compact Coronas format from one of Cuba's most storied marques.