I'm assuming you are asking about the difference between the Partagas 898 varnished and the unvarnished. The difference is not only in the state of finish on the box, but also the cigar itself. The varnished 898, called that because of the way the cigars are arranged in the cabinet style box (layer of 8 then 9 then 8, is a Dalia (6 3/4 x 43) and the unvarnished is a Crona Grande (6 1/8 x 42). It is generally accepted that the varnished is the superior of the two. I myself do prefer the varnished, especially with a few years of age on them!