Foundation 10-Year Anniversary Limited Edition 20 Count Chest

Foundation 10 Year Anniversary Limited Edition 20 Count Chest

Nicholas Melillo’s most ambitious commemorative release takes physical form in this extraordinary 20-count collector’s chest, a presentation piece that transcends traditional cigar packaging. Drawing inspiration from the celebrated El Güegüense 5 Year Anniversary design, this transformative chest showcases Foundation’s decade-long journey through innovative engineering and artistic mastery, housing twenty of the most significant Salomon perfectos in the company’s distinguished history.

Key Features

• Ultra-exclusive production limited to just 750 collector’s chests worldwide
• Revolutionary three-compartment “transformer” box design with swing-out wings
• Twenty 7×58 Salomon perfectos featuring rare Connecticut hybrid wrapper
• Compartmentalized storage with two 5-count wings and 10-count lower section
• Museum-quality artwork depicting St. George slaying the dragon
• Hand-selected tobaccos aged three years before rolling
• Investment-grade collectible presentation with numbered certificate

The chest itself represents a feat of woodworking artistry, employing a sophisticated three-compartment system that Nicholas Melillo affectionately calls the “transformer box.” Two wing-style compartments pivot outward from the main body, each cradling five perfectos in individual slots, while the base compartment houses ten additional cigars. This ingenious design not only provides optimal protection for each cigar but creates a dramatic reveal moment that befits such a momentous anniversary release.

Each of the twenty Salomon perfectos within represents the apex of AJ Fernandez’s rolling expertise. The rare Connecticut hybrid wrapper, cultivated on Foundation’s own farm where Broadleaf genetics meet Havana Seed characteristics, creates a dark, oily canvas that gleams like polished mahogany. Beneath this exceptional leaf lies a Brazilian Mata Fina binder, chosen for its ability to harmonize the complex interplay of Nicaraguan fillers from Estelí’s volcanic soils, Jalapa’s sweet valleys, and Condega’s balanced terroir.

The biblical imagery adorning the chest speaks to battles fought and won over Foundation’s first decade. St. George’s triumph over the dragon mirrors Melillo’s own journey from Drew Estate’s celebrated blender to establishing one of the industry’s most respected boutique brands. The artwork, rendered in vibrant detail across the chest’s surfaces, transforms this packaging into a display piece worthy of any serious collector’s showcase.

The construction of these Salomons pushes the boundaries of traditional cigar making. Each torcedor at AJ Fernandez’s factory requires years of experience to properly execute the dramatic taper from pointed tip through the 58-gauge shoulder. The format allows for an extraordinary flavor evolution, with the concentrated beginning gradually opening into waves of complexity as the ring gauge expands, creating what many consider the ultimate expression of the blender’s art.

With only 750 of these collector’s chests produced globally, ownership represents membership in an exclusive fraternity of Foundation devotees. The presentation echoes the successful format of the El Güegüense 5 Year Anniversary chest while elevating every element to match this milestone occasion. Each chest arrives with documentation certifying its authenticity and place within the limited production run, establishing its credentials as both a smoking experience and investment-grade collectible.

Technical Specifications

Summary

• Box Count: 20
• Region: Nicaragua
• Strength: Medium-Full
• Binder: Brazil (Mata Fina)
• Wrapper: Connecticut Broadleaf/Havana Seed Hybrid
• Filler: Nicaragua (Estelí, Jalapa, Condega)

What makes the 20-count chest different from the 10-count box?

The 20-count features an exclusive three-compartment “transformer” design with two swing-out wing sections holding 5 cigars each, plus a 10-count base compartment. Only 750 of these collector’s chests exist worldwide versus 2,000 of the standard 10-count boxes.

How does the transformer box design work?

The chest opens to reveal two wing compartments that pivot outward, each containing five cigars. The main compartment below holds ten additional cigars. This creates a dramatic presentation while providing superior protection for each Salomon.

Is this chest design similar to previous Foundation releases?

The design draws inspiration from the successful El Güegüense 5 Year Anniversary collector’s chest, which also featured a multi-compartment layout. The 10 Year Anniversary chest elevates this concept with enhanced craftsmanship and more elaborate artwork.

What is the investment potential of this collector’s chest?

With only 750 produced globally and strong demand from collectors, these chests represent significant investment potential. Previous Foundation anniversary releases have appreciated considerably, particularly complete, unopened collector editions.

How should I store this collector’s chest?

The chest itself provides excellent short-term storage. For long-term preservation, maintain 65-70% humidity and 65-70°F temperature. Consider displaying the empty chest while storing cigars in your primary humidor to preserve both the packaging and cigars optimally.

Can I purchase just the chest without cigars?

The chest is only available as a complete unit with all 20 cigars. Empty chests are not sold separately, making complete sets particularly valuable to collectors.

What documentation comes with the chest?

Each chest includes a certificate of authenticity and production number, confirming its place within the limited 750-unit global production run. This documentation enhances both collectibility and resale value.

When did these chests become available?

Following the April 2025 debut at PCA, the 20-count collector’s chests began shipping in September 2025. Due to extremely limited production, availability varies significantly by retailer with many allocations selling out immediately.