Petty Cash by Craig Petty

Effect

Petty Cash is a mentalism trick that uses three envelopes, each containing a poker chip and a bill of different denominations (5, 10, or 20). The spectator chooses one envelope, and the magician predicts their selection. The trick builds suspense as the participant can change their mind before locking in their choice. The kicker ending surprises the audience by subverting their expectations, making it a strong and engaging opener.

Full details

The trick involves three color-coded envelopes, each holding a poker chip and a bill. The magician explains that the participant can win money if they pick an envelope that doesn’t match the magician’s prediction. The participant selects an envelope, and the magician reveals they predicted the choice all along. The trick uses psychological misdirection and color associations to influence the participant’s decision. It requires no sleight of hand and works in any language, making it accessible for performers of all skill levels. The props include custom poker chips, colored envelopes, and stickers, but the performer must supply their own cash.

Who should consider the trick

Petty Cash is ideal for magicians looking for a strong, interactive opener that works in close-up, stage, or parlor settings. It’s particularly suitable for beginners due to its simplicity and lack of sleight of hand. Performers who enjoy mentalism and audience interaction will find this trick highly effective. It’s also a great choice for those who want a versatile routine that can be performed in any language.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

Petty Cash is easy to perform, requiring no sleight of hand or complex moves. The trick relies on psychological misdirection and clear presentation, making it accessible for beginners. However, performers should practice smooth delivery and audience interaction to maximize its impact. The setup is straightforward, and the reset is quick, allowing for repeated performances in a short time.

What magicians say

Matt from 'The Matt Test' rates Petty Cash 9.9/10, praising its simplicity and effectiveness. He notes that the trick has multiple strong outs and works well in various performance settings. AlakazamMagicUK highlights the trick’s high-quality props and surprising kicker ending, calling it a crowd-pleaser. Magic-tv emphasizes its versatility, stating it’s great for opening acts and works in any language. Craig Petty himself describes the trick as highly interactive and fun, with a strong psychological premise that engages audiences.