Cuban cigars are extremely coveted, renowned worldwide for their vibrant flavors and smoothness. Indeed, Cuban cigars are so treasured that numerous illegitimate dealers have been known to sell imitation Cubans to unaware cigar smokers so how do you work out if what you have is a fake or the genuine article? To safeguard yourself from handing over your money for a box of counterfeit cigars, make sure that you are obtaining your cigars from a established and trustworthy business, such as your local tobacconist.

If you ever have the opportunity to buy a box of supposed Cubans, and have your doubts, take your time to examine the box before purchasing it. To discriminate between the real and fake, here are a few tips to help you spot the genuine product.

The most important thing to examine is the box because authentic Cuban cigars will contain a green and white warranty seal on the left front side of the box. The seal will contain an insignia that has a picture of a shield and a hat. The word ‘Habanos’ should be printed on a white sticker that is placed diagonally on the upper right hand corner of the box. Avoid boxes that are not neat and clean, and show signs of damage, smudging, fraying, or markings. Don’t buy cigars if the box is dull, even if they appear to be the real thing, as their quality may have suffered during transport. Know that if you happen to be in the market for Cohibi, Q’dorsay, or Trinidad brand cigars, be informed that all authentic Cohiba’s will contain the green and white warranty seal on the right hand side of the box.

Be sure to make sure that a heat stamp with the word ‘Habanos’ is found impressed onto the bottom of the cigar box, and that it is not imprinted with a rubber stamp or paper label, as this is a sure sign of fake Cuban cigars. In authentic Cuban cigar boxes, you will also find a factory coded stamp on the bottom that is stamped in blue, green, or black ink that will tell you exactly when and where the cigars were rolled.

If you can open the box, take the time to smell the tobacco as Cuban cigars have a deep, rich aroma, unmistakable to a dedicated cigar aficionado. Chances are that you do not have an genuine box of Cubans if the smell is weak, and just doesn’t smell right. The cigars should be facing the same way, and the top row may appear slightly flattened. The foot of each cigar should be cleanly cut, and the caps on all the cigars should be identical. The bands on all the cigars should also be identical, and should be arranged so that they face the same direction. If given permission, feel free to test the cigars out by pressing down on them. Feel along the length of the cigar, and be sure to check for hard or soft spots. The cigars should feel pliable, yet firm.