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Contingencies (Security For Judgments Narrative) (Details) (USD $) In Millions	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2011
Contingencies
Aggregate appeal bonds posted	$ 49

X

- Definition

Total amount of security posted for cases on appeal at all levels.

+ Details

Name:	mo_AggregateAppealBondsPosted
Namespace Prefix:	mo
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	credit
Period Type:	duration

X

- Details

Name:	us-gaap_LossContingencyAbstract
Namespace Prefix:	us-gaap
Data Type:	xbrli:stringItemType
Balance Type:	na
Period Type:	duration