H. Upmann 8" Cuban cigar from John F. Kennedy's personal collection. Labeled "John Kennedy" on the red and gold band wrapped around the cigar, this cigar was ordered on the eve of the President's signing of Proclamation 3447, the bill which solidified the U.S. trade embargo with Cuba. Packaged in its original cellophane wrapper.

On Friday, February 2, 1962, Kennedy gave his press secretary, Pierre Salinger, less than 24 hours to secure the delivery of at least 1,000 H. Upmann Cuban cigars. Short notice for such a big request, but then JFK had a pressing reason for procuring the stash in such a timely fashion. He was about to sign an embargo prohibiting any Cuban products from entering the country, including his beloved cigars. The press secretary didn't let him down, as he managed to acquire 1,200 cigars, from which this one comes.

These items come directly from the Hirschy family. Lieutenant Hirschy was Supply and Logistics Officer for the Military Aides to the President and Officer-in-Charge of the Navy Mess in the White House during both the Kennedy and Johnson administrations. His duties also included taking care of the President’s needs on overseas trips, aboard the presidential yachts and at Camp David. Lt. Hirschy served in the White House from May 1, 1961 through May 31, 1965.