JFK humidor and cigars attracting smoking bids at PFC Auctions
The personal humidor and cigars of John F Kennedy are already drawing collectors
A humidor and two cigars that were presented to John F Kennedy are attracting strong bids from collectors in PFC Auctions' latest sale, which closes on September 27.
The humidor was sent to President Kennedy by the ambassador of the Republic of the Philippines Amelito R Mutuc in 1961. In a letter held by the JFK Presidential Library, Kennedy responds to the gift:
"Dear Mr. Ambassador: I have received the handsome, personalized, mahogany box of very fine cigars that you so thoughtfully sent to me. It was indeed kind of you to send such a generous supply of this excellent product. I know I will enjoy them and consider your gift another demonstration of the warm friendship existing between our countries. With appreciation and every good wish to you and your family. Sincerely, John F. Kennedy."
Just two of the 26 fine Philippine cigars remain in the box, suggesting that the president certainly enjoyed them as promised. Each of the remaining cigars is in its original wrapper, which is printed "SPECIALLY MADE FOR PRESIDENT KENNEDY".
As the president mentions, the humidor itself is a "handsome" mahogany piece, lavishly engraved with his name on the lid. It features slight rubbing at the bevelled edge, which is attributed to its extensive use by the president.
Both the cigars and humidor will be sold in a combined lot, complete with photocopies of five letters between the Filipino ambassador, former president Carlos P Garcia, press secretary Pierre Salinger and President Kennedy -all of which relate to the gift. A magnificent lot from one of the world's most famous cigar smokers, it is currently selling for 4,176 ($7,666).