Pre-embargo would mean about 1/2 a century ago. Storing cigars can and does improve many, but tobacco is still an organic product, subject to natural decomposition. The point of diminishing return, as I understand it, can be anywhere between 6 and 20 years, depending on variables like tobacco used, the roller, storage conditions, etc. But for the most part, I read where 3 years is a nice max storage time, to me, 10 years would be stretching it. But 50? No way, will a cigar resemble anything it was intended after that long.

Sorry you got taken for the c-note. Were it me, I'd ask for my money back. All they can say is "no".