Coins Across by David Roth, Paul Harris, Jeff Latta, Greg Petty, Craig Petty, Rajan, Ben Williams, Mike Sullivan, Harry Nardi, Jay Sankey, and Tim Hill

Created by: David Roth, Paul Harris, Jeff Latta, Greg Petty, Craig Petty, Rajan, Ben Williams, Mike Sullivan, Harry Nardi, Jay Sankey, Tim Hill

Coins Across is a classic close-up coin magic trick where the magician makes coins visually and impossibly teleport from one hand to the other, often in a sequence that builds suspense. Spectators see coins vanish from the magician's hand and reappear in another location, such as under a spectator's watch or in their palm, creating a series of magical transpositions. This trick is highly visual and interactive, making it ideal for walk-around, parlour, or close-up settings. Buyers should note that while some versions use gimmicks like expanded shells or specialized props (e.g., the Quiver Wallet or Artisan Chinese Coin Set), many routines are performed with regular, ungimmicked coins, relying on sleight of hand and misdirection. It's a versatile plot that can be adapted for various audiences, from kids to adults, and is often praised for its strong audience reactions and storytelling potential.

Key features

  • Can be performed with or without gimmicks, using regular coins for a clean effect

  • Highly visual and interactive, engaging spectators directly

  • Versatile for close-up, walk-around, and parlour magic

  • Builds in impact with multiple phases, often ending in a surprising finale

  • Requires practice in sleight of hand, timing, and misdirection for smooth execution

  • Adaptable to personal style, with many variations and presentations available

Pros

  • Strong visual impact and clear magical effect for audiences

  • No gimmicks needed in many versions, making it accessible and impromptu

  • Excellent for building rapport and audience interaction

  • Versatile across different performance settings and age groups

  • Can be combined with other tricks for extended routines

Cons

  • Requires significant practice to master sleights and timing

  • Some versions depend on specific props or gimmicks, limiting versatility

  • Success relies on spectator participation and handling, which can vary

  • Fast-paced teaching in tutorials may need pausing and rewinding for learners

Effect

Coins Across shows coins visually moving from one hand to the other. The coins appear to teleport. They vanish from one hand and instantly appear in the other hand. The routine often ends with a surprise. One version makes the final coin appear under a spectator's watch. Another version uses a Quiver Wallet to catch the coins. The effect is clear and impossible for the audience to explain.

Full details

Coins Across is a classic coin magic plot. Performers use multiple coins. The routine involves a series of vanishes and appearances. Methods vary. Some versions use no gimmicks. Regular coins and standard sleight of hand create the illusion. Other versions incorporate props like the Quiver Wallet or an expanded shell. The routine builds in phases. Each coin moves one by one. The finale is often the strongest moment. One popular handling ends with a coin appearing under a spectator's watch. Another uses a large production for the finish. The method remains completely hidden during performance.

Who should consider the trick

Coins Across suits close-up magicians. It works well in walk-around situations. Strolling performers find it effective. The trick engages small groups. It is also adaptable for parlor shows. Magicians who enjoy coin magic will appreciate its visual nature. Those looking for a classic plot with modern handling can use it. Ben Williams includes it in his professional set for weddings and corporate events. It is versatile across different performance settings.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The difficulty depends on the method chosen. Ungimmicked versions require practice. Sleight of hand skills are necessary. Moves like the Classic Palm and False Transfer are used. Rajan notes that his gimmick-free routine needs practice to execute smoothly. Jay Sankey teaches techniques that require dedicated rehearsal. Some versions rely on props like the Quiver Wallet. These may reduce the sleight of hand demand. Craig Petty's routines often combine concepts from experts like David Roth. Beginners can start with simpler handlings. Advanced performers can explore more complex variations. Consistent practice is key to mastering the timing and misdirection.

What magicians say

Craig Petty performs Coins Across frequently. He describes it as a favorite in his Monster Coin Routine. He says, "The coin on shoulder move is highly effective for misdirection." Rajan highlights the clean, gimmick-free approach. He states, "The finale where the coin appears under the spectator's watch creates a full-circle moment." Ben Williams uses Coins Across in his professional sets. He notes, "It builds cleanly and ends with a personalized photo souvenir for the spectator." Mike Sullivan prefers using a variety of coin sizes. He explains, "Adapting the coin size to the situation improves visual impact." Harry Nardi includes it in his desert island tricks for its visual and interactive qualities.

What people are saying about Coins Across

Ben Williams says...

His handling of Coins Across is designed to escalate cleanly, building in impact. It culminates in a personalized photo souvenir, adding a lasting, tangible element to the magic.

Craig Petty says...

The routine is visually engaging and includes audience interaction. The trick is visually clear and uses a unique prop (the Quiver).

Ferran Rizo says...

The routine is a clear demonstration of how foundational plots can be reinvigorated with clean handling and strong visual magic.

Harry Nardi says...

Coins Across is a classic, visual coin routine selected for its versatility, audience engagement, and performance value.

James Brown says...

Coins Across is reframed around spectator psychology rather than technical execution. The real 'secret' is understanding the mind of the spectator.

Jay Sankey says...

For 'Coins Across,' he explains how to make coins visually jump from one hand to the other, using techniques like the Classic Palm and False Transfer.

Mike Sullivan says...

Sullivan utilizes a gimmicked coin routine, appreciating the visual impact and audience reaction. He prefers using a variety of coin sizes, adapting to the situation.

Rajan says...

The standout moment is the finale, where the last coin magically appears under the spectator's watch, perfectly linking back to the opening patter.

R. Paul Wilson says...

Coins Across is highlighted as being grounded in the discipline of Paul Harris, teaching the importance of clean, motivated actions.

Tim Hill says...

'Emergence' is suitable as a powerful closer for routines like Coins Across, offering a visual and audible moment of astonishment without complex sleight of hand.

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