A classic vitola from the renowned Punch brand, the Punch Coronas served devoted aficionados for decades before its eventual discontinuation. As part of the prestigious Punch brand portfolio, this regular production cigar represented the accessible yet refined character that made Punch one of Cuba's most recognizable names.
History and Background
The Punch Coronas traces its origins to the pre-1960 era, making it one of the brand's longstanding offerings. For nearly half a century, this cigar maintained its place in the Punch lineup, representing the traditional corona format that many purists consider the ideal cigar size. Production continued until 2009, when Habanos S.A. made the decision to discontinue this venerable vitola as part of broader portfolio rationalization.
Specifications
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Factory Name | Coronas |
| Ring Gauge | 42 |
| Length | 142 mm (5⅝″) |
| Official Weight | 9.29 g |
| Construction | Handmade |
| Band | Standard band A |
| Status | Discontinued (2009) |
Vitola Characteristics
The Punch Coronas measured 142 millimeters (approximately 5⅝ inches) with a ring gauge of 42, placing it squarely within the classic corona category. This format has long been favored by experienced smokers for its balanced proportion—the size allows for a complete flavor development while maintaining a reasonable smoking time. The official weight of 9.29 grams reflected the substantial yet manageable fill typical of well-constructed coronas.
Packaging Formats
Throughout its production run, the Punch Coronas appeared in several packaging configurations:
- Dress box of 25 cigars — The standard presentation format, discontinued in 2009 alongside the cigar itself
- Slide lid box of 50 cigars — A traditional cabinet-style presentation, discontinued approximately in 2002
- Glass jar of 25 cigars — Discontinued in the late 1980s
- Glass jar of 50 cigars — Also discontinued in the late 1980s
- Dress box of 10 cigars — A smaller format option, discontinued prior to 2002
The variety of packaging options demonstrated the cigar's popularity across different market segments, from casual buyers seeking smaller quantities to collectors and retailers preferring larger formats.
Related Releases
The Punch Coronas name also appeared in special edition releases:
- Punch Coronas Siglo XXI Millennium Humidor — A special millennium commemorative release
- Punch Coronas Las Tres Selection — A limited selection featuring this vitola
Collectibility and Legacy
With its discontinuation in 2009, the Punch Coronas has transitioned from a readily available everyday smoke to a sought-after collectible. The cigar's long production history means that examples in various packaging formats occasionally surface in the secondary market, though finding well-preserved specimens becomes increasingly challenging as time passes. The glass jar presentations, discontinued in the 1980s, represent particularly rare finds for serious collectors.