Cigarette-Through-Coin by Bob Romley and Peter Nardi

Effect

The Cigarette Through Coin trick creates a striking visual illusion where a cigarette appears to penetrate straight through a solid coin. The audience sees the cigarette push into the coin, seemingly defying physics, before being pulled out with no visible damage to either object. The effect is immediate, baffling, and leaves spectators questioning how such an impossible penetration could occur.

Full details

The trick uses a custom-made gimmick designed by Bob Romley, known for high-quality magic props. It includes a downloadable tutorial by Peter Nardi, covering handling, presentation, and performance tips. The gimmick is small and discreet, easily stored in a deck’s cellophane wrapper, making it portable for street magic or professional performances.

The effect has an instant reset, allowing quick repetition if needed. While angle-sensitive, proper crowd management ensures clean execution. Misdirection plays a crucial role in smoothly ditching the gimmick after the penetration, keeping the focus on the impossible moment.

Who should consider the trick

This trick suits magicians who want a strong, visual effect with minimal setup. It works well for street performers, close-up magicians, and professionals looking for a quick, impactful addition to their sets. Beginners can learn it easily, but proper handling and crowd control are necessary for smooth performances.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The trick is not mechanically difficult, but it requires attention to angles and timing. The gimmick does most of the work, but the performer must manage spectator focus to prevent exposure. Misdirection is key when removing the gimmick after the effect. With practice, the handling becomes second nature.

What magicians say

ChampionMagic describes it as a "visual masterpiece" and praises its practicality, stating that "every single person I've shown it to so far has been left in complete shock." The instant reset and portability make it a strong standalone effect. While angle-sensitive, the baffling nature of the penetration keeps spectators from scrutinizing the method too closely.

The reviewer highly recommends the trick, noting that even if wear and tear occur over time, it’s worth repurchasing due to its strong impact. The combination of Bob Romley’s precision gimmick and Peter Nardi’s handling tips makes this a reliable and deceptive piece of magic.