Purse by Vernet Magic and Michel & Greco

Effect

The Purse trick creates impossible visual transformations with small objects. A spectator sees coins vanish from their hand and instantly appear inside the closed purse. Bills change places impossibly. A ring and a key swap locations in clear view. The magician uses a normal looking leather purse to make these visual changes happen right in front of the audience.

Full details

Purse is a leather coin purse designed specifically for magicians. It contains a hidden mechanism based on the SU wallet principle, adapted for small objects. The purse has a magnetic latch and a deep pocket to assist with seamless switches. It comes with two magician's assistants, which are gimmicks used to hold items during routines. Two small handcuff keys are included for specific effects. A 20 minute tutorial video teaches multiple routines including the Eight Coins Vanish & Reappear, Mismade Bill Effect, and Ring & Key Transposition. The purse cannot be fully examined by spectators after the performance.

Who should consider the trick

Purse works best for magicians who perform with small objects like coins, bills, rings, or keys. It suits performers who already use utility gimmicks and understand switching principles. David from Magic Orthodoxy notes it's particularly good for impromptu switches and transpositions. Craig and Ryland from Magic TV highlight its utility and versatility for various routines. If you perform close-up magic with everyday items, Purse provides multiple visual effects from one prop.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The trick requires some previous experience with gimmicked wallets or switching devices. David states that magicians familiar with SU mechanics will find it quick to learn. The 20 minute tutorial covers the essential routines. However, the odd shape of the purse might feel awkward initially during handling. Angle management is important during performance, though the reviewers note the angles are generally clean. The trick does not require advanced sleight of hand, but does need practice to make the switches look natural.

What magicians say

Magic TV reviewers Craig and Ryland highly recommend Purse for its utility and versatility. They specifically mention it as one of their top picks among the tricks they reviewed. David Penn and Wayne Fox from World Magic Shop praise its elegant design and natural handling, noting it allows for clean and deceptive manipulation of coins and small items. David from Magic Orthodoxy acknowledges the creative use of the SU principle but suggests watching multiple reviews before purchasing due to the $50 price point. He notes that while well-made and practical, the purse cannot be fully inspected by spectators and its effectiveness depends on the performer's style and existing familiarity with similar utility props.