C2501

Great Americans

Milton S. Hershey - Chocolatier, Businessman, and Philanthropist

Collins Cover Announcement 

MILTON S. HERSHEY

Chocolate Bar and Candy Kisses Cachet

In 1909 the Milton Hershey School for orphans was established by the philanthropist and his wife Catherine. Speaking at the First Day ceremony, Postmaster General Marvin Runyon said "Milton Hershey was a truly remarkable man. I, personally, knew young people whose lives were changed by attending the school he founded. The contributions he made to young people, to the Harrisburg community, and to this nation were outstanding."

Following this theme, part of my hand-painted cachet shows young students in period outfits sitting at their early 1900's wooden desks. It is a cute scene! Also shown is a portion of the exterior of the Hershey School. But.. .the main thrust of this eye-catching hand-painted cachet is to present the most familiar legacy of the famous candy magnate - chocolate. Front and center in this COLLINS Cachet is a large Hershey bar and a couple of Hershey candy kisses. They look great!

Milton built his chocolate empire in Derry Township, Pennsylvania. He built around his factory, a self-sufficient community which came to include schools, churches, stores, bank, hotel, golf courses, amusement park, zoo and recreational facilities. The wholesome Hershey Amusement Park has been a favorite of the COLLINS family over the years and each summer we look forward to a couple of vacation days there. As a salute to the town of Hershey which Milton founded, I've also included a street-light in my cachet which is shaped like his famous chocolate kiss candy. The streets of Hershey actually have these uniquely designed lights.

This First Day Cover is the essence of Americana. It will become a much sought after item in the hobby once I'm sold out and I'm proud to offer this COLLINS Cachet - a tribute to Chocolate Town U.S.A. Milton S. Hershey. Item #C2501. $10.75.

Winter 2024 Mail Sale Commentary 

Lot 34 C2501 — Milton Hershey — 9/13/95

The familiar Hershey chocolate bar and candy kisses are prominent in the cachet, and they helped propel this first day cover to popularity. Also pictured is the boys' school founded by the chocolate giant. Americana is always well received by collectors, and this Collins first day cover is one that is eagerly sought.