Elvis Presley "Kissin Cousins" US Half Dollar Commemorative Coin

Elvis Presley is rightly called the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll.  Not only was he a singing sensation, he was also a movie star!  This coin highlights one of hit films Elvis starred in. 
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 along with an image of his signature. The coin is officially licensed by Elvis Presley Enterprises.

Kissin’ Cousins

Elvis’ previous film Viva Las Vegas had been a moneymaker, but production had been over budget and cut into Elvis’ profit – and that of Colonel Parker!  To avoid a repeat, Parker secured Sam Katzman, known as the “King of Quickies” to produce Elvis’ next film.  Kissin’ Cousins was completed in just 17 days (Viva Las Vegas production lasted twelve weeks).

Kissin’ Cousins showcased the talents of producer Katzman, director Gene Nelson, and writer Gene Adams.  In addition, Elvis was joined by a number of up-and-coming celebrities who were uncredited in this film.  Among them were Kent McCord (of Adam 12 fame), Yvonne Craig (“Batgirl”), Maureen Reagan (actress-political commentator and daughter of President Ronald Reagan), and Memphis Mafia member Joe Esposito. 

In the movie, Elvis played two characters who are distant cousins who look alike. One was an Army officer trying to convince the Tatum family to allow the military to build a missile site on their mountain.  The other character, Jodie Tatum, lived on the family land.  The officer eventually falls in love with his distant cousin, Azalea, and convinces the family to lease the land for a sizable monthly payment.  Jodie also finds love when he falls for a Women’s Army Corps private. 

To promote the movie, theaters gave away candy kisses and set up kissing booths.