Few cigars capture the storied history of the legendary Punch brand quite like the fascinating Punch Souvenir de Luxe (2). This machine-made cigar was part of the regular production lineup for several decades before eventually being discontinued in the 1980s. As a pre-1960 release, it stands as one of the older expressions from this iconic Cuban marque.
Historical Background
The Souvenir de Luxe (2) entered the market sometime before 1960, making it a veteran vitola in the Punch portfolio. During its production run, which spanned approximately two to three decades, this cigar was positioned as an accessible option for smokers seeking the classic Punch flavor profile in a machine-constructed format. The discontinuation during the 1980s marked the end of an era for this particular presentation.
Vitola Specifications
| Factory Name | Petit Coronas |
| Ring Gauge | 42 |
| Length | 129 mm (5⅛″) |
| Official Weight | 8.46 g |
| Construction | Machine-made |
Presentation and Packaging
The Souvenir de Luxe (2) was distinguished by its distinctive packaging format. Each unit consisted of five cigars wrapped in cellophane and presented in an aluminum pack. This packaging style offered both protection and portability, making it a practical choice for travelers and those seeking a convenient cigar option. The cigars featured the standard Punch band A, maintaining brand consistency across the range.
Collectibility and Legacy
As a discontinued machine-made cigar with production dating back to the pre-revolution era, the Punch Souvenir de Luxe (2) holds particular interest for collectors of vintage Cuban cigars. The aluminum pack presentation, combined with its decades-long production history, makes surviving examples noteworthy pieces of cigar history. While no longer in production, this vitola remains part of the broader Punch narrative that continues to captivate cigar enthusiasts worldwide.