The Hopping Half by Tango Magic

Created by: Tango Magic

The Hopping Half is a clever coin routine that uses a quarter and a penny to create a magical moment where the coins seem to defy logic. This close-up magic trick is perfect for magicians looking to add a deceptive and visually surprising effect to their repertoire. The routine involves placing the coins together into the hand, removing one, and then revealing that the other has mysteriously returned or vanished, all thanks to a clever gimmick that makes the routine work seamlessly.

Key features

Uses common coins (quarter and penny) for a more organic and relatable effect
Includes a clever gimmick that makes the routine work seamlessly
Perfect for close-up performances
Comes with a unique presentation idea involving the concept of deja vu

Pros

Deceptive simplicity
Visual surprise for the audience
Can be adapted to the performer's own style and presentation
Uses coins that are naturally carried, making it always ready to perform

Cons

Requires practice to handle the gimmick cleanly
The gimmick may wear out over time with frequent use

Effect

The Hopping Half is a deceptive coin routine where a quarter and a penny visibly switch places in the spectator's hands. The magician places both coins into the spectator's palm, removes one, and yet the coins mysteriously trade positions. The effect is clean, visual, and leaves the audience questioning how the coins could have moved without any suspicious handling.

Full Details

The Hopping Half uses a clever gimmick that allows the coins to switch places effortlessly. Unlike traditional versions that use a half-dollar and an English penny, this version utilizes a U.S. quarter and penny, making it more organic and practical for everyday performances. The routine is structured to build repetition, reinforcing the impossibility of the effect before the final, most baffling phase.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick is ideal for:

Close-up magicians who want a strong, visual coin routine.
Performers looking for impromptu material—since it uses common coins, it can be done anytime.
Those who enjoy gimmicked coin magic but want something that feels natural in performance.

Difficulty

The Hopping Half is moderate in difficulty. The gimmick does most of the work, but proper handling and timing are crucial to maintain the illusion. The routine requires smooth execution to avoid flashing the method. Luke Dancy emphasizes the importance of clean handling and creating a moment of surprise for the audience.

What Magicians Say

Luke Dancy highlights the deceptive simplicity of the gimmick, calling it "very clever" and praising how it makes the routine feel organic. He notes that the final phase, where the coins seemingly vanish and reappear, is particularly strong.
Performers appreciate the practicality—since it uses a quarter and penny, it’s easy to carry and perform without raising suspicion.
The routine is adaptable, allowing magicians to customize the presentation. Dancy’s "Deja Vu" theme is one example of how the effect can be framed creatively.

The Hopping Half is a solid choice for magicians who want a reliable, visual coin trick that plays big with minimal setup.

What people are saying about The Hopping Half

Luke Dancy says...

The Hopping Half's deceptive simplicity and the clever gimmick that makes the routine work.