Description
A classic-style hardcover with a light yellowish, almost beige background. The design is clearly oriented towards American aesthetics - the inscription dominates in the middle KING, surrounded by a ray-shaped emblem. Above it is the red crown emblem, and below it is subtle text King Express USA Blend and Finest Filter Cigarettes in cursive font.
The inscription on the top of the package „"USA"“ emphasizes the marketing direction – an "American Blend" type tobacco blend, but production was carried out in the United Kingdom.
The packaging proportions are long, because it 100's format, i.e. elongated cigarettes, typical of a higher category.
Value assessment
Collectible value: Above average. British-made export releases such as King Express are rare. The USA Blend design and 100's format make this pack an interesting example of the transitional period (1990-2000) when there were a number of private tobacco exporters operating in the UK.
Condition assessment: Excellent – undamaged film, clearly preserved colors, uniform surface.
Historical data: „European Tobacco Ltd. and other British manufacturers produced such permits for export to Eastern Europe, North Africa and the Middle East. This is one of the rare cases where cigarettes of English origin were sold with the "USA Blend" label.
