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The Kreskin Altoid Effect by Menny Lindenfeld

Created by: Menny Lindenfeld

The Kreskin Altoid Effect is a mind-blowing close-up mentalism routine that uses modified Altoid boxes and a signed coin to create an impossible prediction. The magician presents two (or more) seemingly identical Altoid boxes, allowing the spectator to freely place a signed coin inside any box and mix them. Despite the random selection, the magician flawlessly identifies the box containing the coin, often with a dramatic reveal. The trick relies on subtle modifications to the Altoid boxes (such as bending hinges and marking lids) and psychological misdirection to create a fair yet impossible effect. Perfect for walk-around or close-up performances, this routine emphasizes fairness, spectator interaction, and a strong mentalism presentation.

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MMS ONE SHOT - The Kreskin Altoids Effect by Menny Lindenfeld video DOWNLOAD from Alakazam Magic
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Key features

  • Uses modified Altoid boxes for deceptive handling

  • Spectator signs the coin for added credibility

  • Works silently or with patter, adaptable to performer's style

  • Subtle markings on boxes allow for tracking without detection

  • Can be expanded with additional boxes for increased impossibility

Pros

  • Highly deceptive and visually striking

  • Strong audience participation and engagement

  • No complex sleight of hand required

  • Versatile for mentalism or magic performances

  • Easy to reset and repeat

Cons

  • Requires preparation (modifying Altoid boxes)

  • May need practice to perfect the timing and presentation

  • Not ideal for impromptu performances due to setup

Effect

The Kreskin Altoid Effect is a deceptive coin routine that uses modified Altoid tins to create the illusion of mind reading. A spectator signs a coin and places it inside one of several tins. The magician, without looking, correctly identifies which tin holds the coin—even after the spectator mixes them. The effect appears fair and impossible, as the magician never touches the tins until the final reveal.

Full Details

The routine involves two or more Altoid tins with their lids removed and subtly marked for tracking. The magician modifies the tins by bending the hinges and adjusting the locking mechanism for smooth handling. A spectator signs a coin, ensuring no switches occur, and places it inside any tin. The tins are mixed, and the magician, using subtle visual cues, determines the correct tin without direct handling.

The method relies on consistency in performance—always pushing out empty tins first—to maintain the illusion of randomness. The routine can be performed silently or with patter, depending on the performer's style.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This effect suits magicians who enjoy mentalism or coin magic with a psychological angle. It works well in close-up or walk-around settings where props can be easily carried. Performers who appreciate subtlety and audience interaction will find this routine engaging.

Difficulty

The Kreskin Altoid Effect requires practice in handling the tins smoothly and reading the marks discreetly. The method is not mechanically difficult but relies on timing and natural movements to avoid suspicion. Beginners may need time to master the performance flow, while experienced magicians can adapt it quickly.

What Magicians Say

Menny Lindenfeld emphasizes the importance of fairness in the routine, stating, "I want everything to be super fair... you can decide to do whatever you want." He also highlights the value of silent performance, noting that refining the routine to work without speaking made it more versatile.

Patrick Kun, who demonstrates a related coin technique in the video, praises the practicality of combining moves like the thumb palm with a shooting action for clean vanishes. His approach complements the deceptive nature of the Kreskin Altoid Effect.

The routine has evolved over time, with Ran Pink contributing the idea of having the spectator sign the coin for added credibility. Lindenfeld describes this as "a nice idea... it gives more credibility to the effect."

Overall, the Kreskin Altoid Effect is praised for its deceptive simplicity and strong audience impact.

What people are saying about The Kreskin Altoid Effect

MurphysMagicSupplies says...

The Kreskin Altoid Effect is a visually striking routine that creates a sense of fairness and impossibility, using unmarked boxes and a signed coin for maximum impact.

Tutorial videos