Bic Coin by James Keatley

Effect

The Bic Coin is a utility device that allows magicians to perform visually stunning coin magic. The effect includes producing a coin from thin air, making it vanish, and even passing it through a table. One of the most impressive routines involves making a coin appear under a spectator's hand while they hold a cup, creating a strong magical moment. The device uses a modified Bic lighter as a gimmick, making the magic seem effortless and impossible to detect.

Full Details

The Bic Coin set includes:

• A gimmicked Bic lighter (the utility device)
• A replica Morgan dollar coin (gimmicked and non-gimmicked versions)
• A jumbo-sized coin for transformation effects
• Extra bands, black tack, and a silencer for maintenance
• Additional props for the "Phase Two" version, including cups and a straw

The device enables multiple routines, such as:

• Coin Production: Tap the lighter on your hand to make a coin appear instantly.
• Coin Through Table: The coin visually penetrates the table from below.
• Coin Under Cup: The coin appears under a spectator's hand while they hold a cup.
• Transformation: A regular-sized coin changes into a jumbo coin in the spectator's hand.

The tutorial (over an hour long) is taught by James Keatley and Craig Petty, covering fundamentals and advanced applications.

Who Should Consider the Trick

The Bic Coin is ideal for:

• Intermediate to advanced magicians who are comfortable with coin sleights.
• Performers who enjoy utility devices and want a versatile tool for multiple effects.
• Close-up and walk-around magicians, though some routines work better in controlled environments (e.g., bar or stage settings).
• Creators who like to invent new routines, as the device offers many possibilities beyond the taught material.

Beginners can use it, but they should be prepared to practice basic vanishes and switches.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

The Bic Coin requires some skill in coin magic, particularly:

• Basic vanishes and switches
• Palming techniques
• Confidence in handling gimmicks naturally

The gimmick itself is easy to use, but proper timing and misdirection are crucial. Some reviewers noted a slight learning curve with the lighter's mechanism, but it becomes smooth with practice. The noise from the gimmick is minimal and usually unnoticed in real-world performances.

What Magicians Say

• RealMagicReview (Steve Thornton):

  • "It's a lovely bit of kit, very versatile... if you're a coin worker, you'll be able to go out with this pretty much straight away."
  • Praises the value, especially with the included coins and accessories.

• Fiddle and Johnny:

  • "This is one of those releases that really spurred my imagination... it has as much value for somebody early in their magic journey as it does for professionals."
  • Highlights the quality of the gimmick and the endless creative possibilities.

• General Consensus:

  • The Bic Coin is a strong, practical tool for coin magic.
  • Some routines require justification (e.g., carrying a lighter), but the effects are powerful when performed well.
  • The price is reasonable given the included props and long-term usability.

Overall, the Bic Coin is a well-received utility device that enhances a magician's coin magic repertoire with visual and practical effects.