Hanging Coins by David Roth

Effect

The Hanging Coins trick creates the illusion of coins vanishing and then floating in mid-air. The magician starts with four coins, making each one disappear with a squeeze, leaving them seemingly suspended in the air. The trick concludes with the coins reappearing in a visually striking finale. The effect is both quick and visually impressive, leaving the audience amazed by the apparent defiance of gravity.

Full details

Hanging Coins is a classic coin magic routine developed by David Roth. It involves the use of four half-dollar coins, which the magician makes vanish one by one, creating the illusion that they are hanging in mid-air. The trick is known for its smooth execution and the use of edge grip techniques, which have become foundational in coin magic. The routine is versatile, suitable for both sit-down and stand-up performances, and its angles are manageable for most settings. The finale, where all the coins reappear, is a standout moment that leaves a lasting impression on the audience.

Who should consider the trick

Hanging Coins is ideal for intermediate magicians who have some experience with coin magic and are looking to expand their repertoire. It is particularly suited for those who enjoy performing close-up magic and want to add a visually stunning routine to their act. The trick is also a great choice for magicians who appreciate classic routines with a strong magical impact.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The Hanging Coins trick requires practice to master, especially the edge grip techniques and the smooth execution of the vanishes and reappearances. While it is accessible to intermediate performers, beginners may find the fast pacing and sleight of hand challenging. The angles are manageable, making it suitable for various performance settings, but consistent practice is essential to ensure a flawless performance.

What magicians say

Magicians praise Hanging Coins for its visual impact and the way it popularized edge grip techniques in coin magic. Craig Petty describes it as a "foundational routine" that offers strong magical moments and encourages magicians to study and perform this classic. Magic-tv highlights the trick's fast-paced and visually engaging nature, though they note that the speed might make it hard for beginners to follow. Andy Smith from AlakazamMagicUK appreciates the trick's ability to defy gravity and its inclusion in Richard Kaufman's 'Coin Magic' book. Overall, Hanging Coins is celebrated for its creativity, practicality, and the lasting impression it leaves on audiences.