The Origin and Meaning Behind the 555 Cigarette Name

State Express 555 stands as one of the most recognisable cigarette brands in global tobacco history. With more than a century of heritage, the 555 brand continues to attract smokers, historians, and collectors worldwide. Its distinctive triple-number name has long sparked curiosity, inspiring deeper exploration into its origins. In this article, TopSmoke uncovers the fascinating story behind the 555 cigarette name — tracing its journey from Victorian-era London to its rise as a modern premium tobacco product.

What Is the 555 Cigarette?

State Express 555 represents a premium cigarette brand originally manufactured in Westminster, London. The brand emerged in 1896 as part of the Ardath Tobacco Company's product line. Today, the cigarettes are known simply as 555 in most markets.

The brand achieved worldwide distribution following British American Tobacco's acquisition of overseas rights in 1925. Smokers can purchase 555 cigarettes across Belgium, Brazil, China, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Kenya, Russia, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand, and numerous other countries. The Asian market particularly embraces this brand, with strong sales recorded in Chinese, Vietnamese, Bangladeshi, and Taiwanese territories.

The Origin of the Name "555"

The State Express brand name traces back to an 1893 train journey in the United States. Sir Albert Levy, a London tobacco merchant, travelled as a passenger on the Empire State Express train. The locomotive, nicknamed the "Queen of Speed," set land speed records during its run from New York City to Buffalo, New York.

This experience inspired Levy to create the State Express brand upon his return to London. The company officially registered on 10 March 1896. The numeric component arrived later, with the triple-number system receiving trademark registration under UK Registration No. 290529 on 18 February 1907.

Ardath Tobacco Company deployed a series of triple numbers ranging from 111 to 999. Each number identified a distinct tobacco blend. The 444 variant featured Macedonian leaf, while 777 contained Turkish tobacco. The Virginia tobacco blend of State Express 555, introduced in 1896, emerged as the most successful variant and became Ardath's flagship product.

Why "555" — Significance of the Numbers

The triple-five designation served a practical purpose in Ardath's product strategy. The company used different number combinations to distinguish various tobacco blends and target different consumer preferences. This system allowed customers to identify their preferred blend quickly.

The 555 blend specifically used Virginia tobacco. This particular formulation gained widespread acceptance, leading to its dominance over other numbered variants. The brand achieved remarkable success in China during the 1920s and 1930s, with sales exceeding 5 billion units in 1937.

Historical records indicate the brand held special significance in Chinese political circles. Mao Zedong reportedly preferred 555 cigarettes. On the day marking the Proclamation of the People's Republic of China, both Mao Zedong and Liu Shaoqi reportedly smoked 555 cigarettes during the ceremonies.

See more:

• What Makes 555 a Premium Mild Cigarette?
• Inside the History of 555: The Making of a British Cigarette Icon
• 555 and British American Tobacco: A Partnership Legacy

The Original Manufacturer — Ardath Tobacco Company

Ardath Tobacco Company Limited originated in late 19th-century London. The business initially operated as Albert Levy & Thomas, located at 62 Leadenhall Street under the name La Casa de Habana (The House of Havana). The company adopted the Ardath name in 1895, derived from a novel by Marie Corelli that referenced the "Field of Ardath" from the Books of Esdras.

Sir Albert Levy registered the Ardath trademark in Ireland on 31 July 1895. The company restructured in 1901, becoming the Ardath Tobacco Company. A significant division occurred in 1925 when the company split its operations. British American Tobacco purchased overseas rights to Ardath brands, while Imperial Tobacco Group retained domestic rights for the United Kingdom and Ireland.

Current manufacturing operates through CTBAT International Co. Ltd., a joint venture between China National Tobacco and British American Tobacco established in 2013. This partnership holds worldwide rights to the 555 brand. In Canada, Imperial Tobacco Canada briefly manufactured State Express 555 filter king-size cigarettes starting in 1961, though production ceased by the mid-1960s due to limited market acceptance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About 555 Cigarettes

Is State Express 555 Still Being Produced?

State Express 555 remains in production and maintains availability across multiple international markets. The brand continues manufacturing through CTBAT International Co. Ltd., operating as a joint venture between China National Tobacco and British American Tobacco since 2013.

Who Currently Manufactures State Express 555?

CTBAT International Co. Ltd. handles current manufacturing operations for State Express 555 cigarettes worldwide. This company formed in 2013 as a partnership between China National Tobacco and British American Tobacco, combining resources from both organisations to produce and distribute the brand globally.

What Kind of Tobacco Blend is Used in 555 Cigarettes?

State Express 555 cigarettes use a Virginia tobacco blend. This formulation has remained consistent since the brand's introduction in 1896. The blend combines tobacco with specific additives, creating a smoking experience characterised by strength balanced with smoothness and distinct flavour notes that differentiate it from other cigarette brands.