# CNS1017 - Elvis Presley "First Time on Milton Berle" US Half Dollar Commemorative Coin

Elvis Presley is rightly called the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll.  As a real Elvis fan, you love capturing your favorite historic moments from the life of the original American idol.  This coin preserves one of your favorite Elvis memories

Mystic has permanently bonded a vibrant image of Elvis to this uncirculated US Half Dollar.  The coin features an original photograph of Presley from his estate’s official archives and is officially licensed by Elvis Presley Enterprises.

First Time on The Milton Berle Show

Elvis Presley was a rising young star in 1956.  He had appeared on national television six times on the Dorsey Brothers’ Stage Show.  On April 3, 1956, Elvis was a guest on one of the most popular television shows of the time, The Milton Berle Show.

Many American families bought their first TV sets to watch “Uncle Miltie” and his cast of comedians on Tuesday night. For a budding talent like Elvis Presley, appearing on Berle’s show could make him an overnight star.

The performance was televised live from the deck of the USS Hancock, which was anchored at San Diego’s Naval Air Base. It was filmed before an audience made up mostly of sailors.

During the show, Elvis sang “Shake Rattle and, Roll,” “Heartbreak Hotel,” and “Blue Suede Shoes.” He was accompanied by his band members Scotty Moore, Bill Black, and D.J. Fontana. Elvis was also in a comedy sketch, where Milton Berle played Presley’s twin brother Melvin.

After the show, Presley’s manager Colonel Parker sent announcements to the Elvis Presley Fan Club members. They included the dates of the upcoming concerts in San Diego and thanked “Mr. Television” for having Elvis on the show. The flyers called Presley the “Nation’s only atomic powered singer.”

While Elvis was in San Diego, he performed in two sold-out concerts. The San Diego Police and Shore Patrol were called to help control the crowd of screaming girls. The police chief was unhappy with Elvis’ concert and warned him if he returned to his city, the chief would arrest him for disorderly conduct.

Elvis’ first appearance on The Milton Berle Show gave Presley the recognition he deserved. Within three weeks, his single Heartbreak Hotel hit number one on Billboard’s Top 100 Chart. It was his first record to sell one million copies.

After that first appearance, Elvis’ fame kept growing. His singing success led to additional television performances, movie appearances, and worldwide fame.