6 Coins and a Chinese Coin by Dai Vernon

Created by: Dai Vernon

6 Coins and a Chinese Coin is a close-up coin magic trick that involves the magical transposition of coins through a table. The trick is based on D Vernon's version of the hangping Chen coins through table, known for its deceptive nature and the obscurity of the handping Chen move. It's a strong, visual trick that leaves spectators baffled, making it a killer addition to any magician's repertoire. The method is so unique that lay audiences can't easily reconstruct how it's done, ensuring a lasting impression.

Key features

Based on D Vernon's version of the hangping Chen coins through table
Involves a unique and obscure move that's hard for audiences to figure out
Strong visual trick that's perfect for close-up performances
Recommended for magicians looking to add a deceptive coin routine to their act

Pros

Highly deceptive and visual
Unique method that's obscure to lay audiences
Strong fooler that leaves a lasting impression
Versatile for various performance settings

Cons

Requires practice to master the handping Chen move
May not be suitable for beginners due to the complexity of the method

Effect

The trick 6 Coins and a Chinese Coin is a visually striking coin routine where multiple coins appear to penetrate through a solid table. The magician places six coins on the table, along with a distinctive Chinese coin. One by one, the coins vanish from the table and reappear beneath it, defying logic. The Chinese coin adds an extra layer of intrigue, making the routine stand out from standard coin magic.

Full Details

This routine is based on Dai Vernon’s version of the Hang Ping Chen Coins Through Table, a classic effect with a deceptive method. The trick involves a series of vanishes and reappearances, with the coins seemingly passing through the table’s surface. The Chinese coin serves as a unique visual anchor, making the routine more memorable.

The method is obscure, meaning even experienced magicians may struggle to reverse-engineer it. The routine is structured to build in impossibility, with each coin’s disappearance and reappearance reinforcing the illusion.

Who Should Consider the Trick

Coin magic enthusiasts looking for a strong, deceptive routine.
Close-up performers who want a worker effect with high visual impact.
Magicians who enjoy classic magic but want a fresh presentation.
Those who appreciate Vernon’s material and want to explore lesser-known but powerful effects.

Difficulty

The trick requires intermediate-level sleight of hand, particularly in coin manipulation. The Hang Ping Chen move is central to the routine and may take practice to master. However, once learned, the method is reliable and repeatable.

Ali Cook describes it as a "killer trick" due to its deceptive nature, but notes that it’s surprisingly underperformed today. The routine is structured in a way that makes it self-working once the mechanics are understood, but smooth execution depends on practice.

What Magicians Say

Ali Cook calls it a "very strong trick" and praises its deceptive method, stating: "The move is so obscure that I don’t think a lay audience can really understand the concept of Hang Ping Chen."
He also highlights its historical significance, mentioning that it was the first trick in the Dai Vernon book The Further Inner Lost Secrets, indicating its strength as an opener.
Cook recommends studying Vernon’s work to fully grasp the routine, emphasizing that learning it will make a magician "better at coin magic overall."

This routine is ideal for performers who want a visually deceptive, classic-inspired coin effect that stands out from standard vanishes and productions. Its combination of strong method and engaging presentation makes it a valuable addition to any close-up set.

What people are saying about 6 Coins and a Chinese Coin

Ali Cook says...

D Vernon's version of the hangping Chen coins through table it's a trick that's surprisingly unpopular now uh but I'm I'm telling you this is a killer it's a very very strong trick and the move is so obscure that I don't think a lay audience can really understand the concept of hand ping Chen it's it's just an incredible idea uh and because of that unique method it it really is a fooler it's it's a wonderful trick.