Cigar collecting can be lucrative. With major auction houses like Christie’s jumping into the fray, the hobby is quickly gaining credibility. If you’re considering collecting cigars, the following seven lessons from old school cigar collectors will help you do so successfully.

Start with a Few

If you’re just getting started, it will take time to discover your cigar likes and preferences. As you continue with the hobby, your favorites will change. By purchasing a few cigars at a time, you’ll be able to try out different brands. In addition, you’ll avoid being stuck with a bunch of cigars that you don’t like smoking.

Work with Tobacconists

Be sure to work with a fine tobacconist when buying cigars. Tobacconists have a large assortment of quality cigars available to purchase. In addition, you’ll be buying a product that has been well maintained while in storage. Since you’ll be discussing cigars with professionals, be sure to ask for collecting tips.

Establish a Budget

In the cigar world, the old saying “you get what you pay for” is a good way to measure the quality of the product. However, as a newcomer, look for ways to avoid overspending. Quality cigars are available for less than $10. When you’re just getting started as a collector, you can wait until you’re a connoisseur to smoke the fancy ones.

Begin with Mild Cigars

If you’re a novice cigar collector, consider beginning with mild cigars as full-bodied ones are often overpowering. They may even be unpleasant to smoke. Mild cigars will ease you into the hobby while allowing you to avoid being turned off by the taste and smell of them before you become a collector.

Go With Your Instincts

Cigars fall into two categories, which are immediate classics or wait-and-see products. Do not hesitate to invest in a cigar that your heart tells you to buy. Keep in mind that second or third generation cigar batches will not provide the same flavor quality as first generation products.

Get an Extra Box

When you do purchase cigars, consider purchasing the boxes in pairs. Quality cigars may double in value within just a few years, but sealed boxes of cigars generally resell for the most profit. A second box of cigars will give you the best of both worlds since you’ll have a box to enjoy and another to invest. Wine collectors typically purchase their product of choice using this same method.

Try Before You Buy

Before purchasing a box of cigars, be sure to try one from the same batch to verify its quality. If the cigar seems a little young, put your second box away to age. This will likely result in a larger profit down the road. Keep an eye on the batch by smoking cigars from the box that you purchased to enjoy from time to time. Once it reaches its best flavor, consider selling your investment cigar box.

A Profitable Hobby

Cigar collecting can be as profitable as it is enjoyable. When you follow the tips provided by old school collectors, you’ll have a way to turn an interesting hobby into extra cash.