First off, the boxes are key to authenticity. All Cuban cigar boxes are marked on the bottom with 3 tradmarks that are burned into the wood. The first trademark says "Habanos S.A". The second says "Hecho en Cuba". The third is "Totalmente a mano". Also, real Cuban boxes all have a date code stamped on the bottom in green, black, or blue. There is a Cuban seal wrapped on the outside on the bottom left corner of the box (unless it's a Cohiba box and those are on the bottom right). There is also the famouse white "Habanos" label on the top right corner of every Cuban box since 1994. Almost all Cuban cigars are rolled with a tripple cap. Look closely and you will see 3 roll lines in the cap. Also, use common sense. These are premium cigars and should all be uniform in size and color. All should have a consistantly solid chocolate color and few if any veins. They should be firm but have give to them. The aroma should be rich and satisfying almost sweet for some. All the labels should be consistant and have rich color , and keep in mind that NO ONE has a legit connection that allows them get REAL Cuban cigars at a fraction of the price. Most all legit Cubans are premium priced and for good reason. Check out Cigar-Aficionado's page on counterfeit Cuban cigars. It has great visuals to see for yourself. The Havana Journal also has a superb page on real vs. fake Cubans particularly Cohiba's. Cheers to all.