“Orphans” vs. “Seconds”

Q. What is the difference between premium cigars that are referred to as “orphans” and cigars that are referred to as “seconds?”
– Confused in America
A. Great question. “Seconds” are most often premium cigars that didn’t make the cut as “firsts” due to mediocre rolling, inferior draw, wide variations wrapper color, minor flaws on the wrapper leaf; for the most part, cosmetic reasons. Seconds are also usually packaged in bundles.

“Orphans” are most often premium cigars classified as “firsts,” but may have been rolled or cut to the wrong size (it happens) or, were made for a reseller, who, for whatever reason, cancelled their order. As the name implies, they’re primarily “leftovers.” At the discretion of the new buyer, orphans can be packaged in boxes or bundles.

The one thing they both have in common is, they’re purchased by the reseller at a much lower price, which results in savings to the consumer.

The Puros Huerfanos Blend 681 Robusto (shown above) is an example of an “orphan” that was cut to the wrong size.