Rafael González Coronas Lonsdales
The Rafael González Coronas Lonsdales represents a fascinating chapter in Cuban cigar history—a vitola that enjoyed a relatively brief production run before disappearing from the brand's portfolio. As a discontinued regular production cigar, it has become a point of interest for collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate the heritage of the Rafael González marque.
Historical Background
The Coronas Lonsdales was introduced prior to 1960, placing it among the earlier releases under the Rafael González brand name. The cigar remained in production through the 1960s before being discontinued during the 1970s, giving it an active production lifespan of approximately one to two decades.
This timing places the cigar firmly within a transformative period for the Cuban cigar industry, making surviving examples particularly noteworthy for those interested in pre- and post-revolution production transitions.
Specifications
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Cigar Name | Coronas Lonsdales |
| Factory Name | Unknown |
| Ring Gauge | 44 |
| Length | 127 mm (5″) |
| Official Weight | 8.86 g |
| Construction | Handmade |
| Band | Standard band A |
| Packaging | Dress box of 25 cigars |
| Status | Discontinued |
Vitola Profile
With its 44 ring gauge and 127 mm (5 inch) length, the Coronas Lonsdales falls into the classic Lonsdale category—a format named after the Earl of Lonsdale and long appreciated for its elegant smoking characteristics. This dimensional combination offers a balanced smoking experience, with sufficient girth to deliver complexity while maintaining a refined, traditional proportions.
The handmade construction reflects the artisanal standards maintained by the Rafael González brand, which has historically positioned itself as a producer of premium Cuban cigars with distinctive character.
Packaging and Presentation
The cigar was presented in dress boxes containing 25 units, accompanied by the brand's standard band A design. This packaging configuration was typical for regular production cigars of the era, offering both practical storage and an attractive presentation for retailers and consumers.
Related Releases
The Coronas Lonsdales name resurfaced in a special edition format with the Rafael González Coronas Lonsdales Siglo XXI Millennium Humidor release, which commemorated the turn of the millennium. This limited edition tribute underscores the historical significance of the original vitola within the brand's lineage.
Collectibility
Given its pre-1960 introduction and discontinuation in the 1970s, the Rafael González Coronas Lonsdales has become a sought-after piece for serious collectors of vintage Cuban cigars. Surviving boxes and individual cigars represent tangible connections to a bygone era of Cuban cigar production, making them valuable both as smoking experiences and historical artifacts.