T2101

American Music

Elvis Presley

Collins Cover Announcement

ROCK 'N ROLL -- RHYTHM & BLUES

ELVIS PRESLEY

Of all the different cachets designed for the Elvis Presley stamps by various makers (and there were quite a few), I'm sure that this is the last one coming onto the market. In this case it may very well be that the "Best of Issue" has taken this long to emerge because this Elvis is one of the finest portrait FL,C,„ I've ever offered.

Before telling you about this distinctive hand-painted COLLINS, let me clarify two things about this cover. First of all, there were two different Elvis stamps issued -- the initial one as a single and then another later as part of the Rock 'n Roll series. They are easy to distinguish because the first just has the name "Elvis" on it and the second has "Elvis Presley". Thus, this is a different stamp than the one used on my first Elvis cover offered previously. Second, this cachet being offered now with the different stamp is also entirely new and it goes with and completes my Rock 'n Roll set.

Just a brief word about the cachet although it is truly one that you must see in person to really appreciate. This is one of those fairly rare moments when the finished product actually exceeded my hopes and expectations. The portrait portion of the cachet has captured the Elvis "look". Soft pastels blended together have resulted in skin quality that is beyond excellent for cachet art. Penetrating eyes, pursed lips, highlighted hair, and a soft crimson colored shirt all come together to preserve forever in the First Day Cover hobby the image of the young Elvis Presley. The young Elvis that first emerged on the national scene. The young Elvis that was untainted by the many, many problems that would plague the star in later years and lead to his youthful death. The youthful Elvis on this COLLINS cachet is the one that should be remembered.

In addition to the portrait, this cachet has other components that lend to the over-all appearance. A realistic rendition of Graceland, his Tennessee estate. A pair of blue suede shoes being symbolic of one of his greatest hits. And, hand painting of each individual letter in the text of his name.

In conclusion, let me suggest that this will be an excellent addition to any FDC collection because it will become the "key" cover in the COLLINS Rock 'n Roll star set. And, many topical people will seek this item out for their specialized collections of Elvis material. I'm pleased to offer this final Rock 'n Roll set COLLINS to you and I know you'll be delighted when you receive it. Elvis Presley. Item #T2101. $10.75.