Thierry et ses cigares

LOT 542 (by Mullocks Specialist Auctioneers & Valuers) :

Che Guevara's Signed Personal Cigar Box 1963 Cuban post-Revolution. Ernesto Rafael 'Che' Guevara

Che Guevara’s Signed Personal Cigar Box 1963 Cuban post-Revolution. Ernesto Rafael 'Che' Guevara De La Serna. Signed by Che to the lid, made of wood with a decorative hinged lid, inscribed with a burned effect internally: 

‘To the Minister Of Industry Commandant Ernesto Guevara of the Serna CHE We wish you much happiness on your birthday. That it will be with health and success. Head Office of the Ministry of Industry. June 14, 1963’. 

The Receiver Stamp : ‘Received Minister of Industry ‘Che’s signature dated 14th June 1963 Year Of The Organisation'. The inscription indicates that this would have been a gift given by the Ministry to its leader – most likely from employees reporting directly to Che or a similar level management team. 

Externally, the Cuban coat of arms in enamel displayed to the lid and also embossed to the bottom of the cigar box. There is a further miniature, enamelled coat of arms to the front of the box above the national flag; the reversed miniature coat of arms and Cuban flag badges not contemporary to the box's construction, and have been added by a later hand. As evidenced by the presence of the Ministry Receiver's Stamp, with Che's original signature, this was a gift presented in an official capacity. This stamp is present on all pieces of correspondence etc. received by the Office and would have been used to acknowledge official receipt and cataloguing of such items. 

Displaying inlaid wood diamond patterning to the edges, the box is in superb condition and excellently presented. For a visual record of Che's birthday in 1963, see the work of Swiss Magnum photographer, Rene Burri, who accompanied him on the day. A unique hand signed, personal possession of a major influential figure in the Cuban Revolution, Ernesto Che Guevara, displaying his passion for cigars. This item is offered via a private collection.

Live auction: 01 Mar 2016 10:30 GMT

Estimate: 10,000 GBP - 12,000 GBP

Buyer's Premium: 19.00%

Internet surcharge: 3.00%

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