Too Many Coins by Kainoa Harbottle

Effect

The Too Many Coins routine creates the illusion of multiple coins appearing and vanishing in the performer's hands. The magician starts with several coins, then gradually reduces them in impossible ways. The audience sees coins disappear and reappear at unexpected moments, creating a sense of continuous magic. The routine plays with perception, making it seem like there are always "too many coins" to keep track of.

Full Details

The routine uses sleight of hand and misdirection to achieve its effects. Key techniques include the Push-Through Vanish, where coins appear to vanish as they are placed into the hand, and the Nowhere Palm, a subtle method for hiding coins in the curled fingers. The routine is modular, allowing performers to adjust the sequence based on preference.

The performance relies on rhythmic misdirection, using natural hand movements and tapping sounds to disguise sleights. The magician maintains a playful tone, engaging the audience with phrases like "There’s just too many coins!" to keep attention away from technical moves.

The routine is designed for stand-up or walkaround magic, requiring no table. It draws inspiration from Milbourne Christopher’s original concept and incorporates Gary Kurtz’s theories on creating a "hallucinatory state" in coin magic.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This routine is best suited for intermediate magicians with some experience in coin sleights. Performers who enjoy fast, visual coin magic will appreciate the deceptive techniques and adaptable structure. Those who perform in close-up or walkaround settings will find it useful since it requires no table.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

The routine involves moderate difficulty due to the sleight-heavy nature of the effects. The Push-Through Vanish and Nowhere Palm require precise finger positioning and timing. Angle management is crucial to prevent exposure. However, Kainoa Harbottle’s teaching breaks down each move clearly, making it accessible with practice.

What Magicians Say

Kainoa Harbottle’s routine is described as a "masterclass in visual coin magic", blending speed and deception. The Push-Through Vanish is highlighted as particularly versatile for other coin routines. Reviewers note that the rhythmic misdirection and playful presentation help mask the sleights effectively.

The routine is praised for its modular structure, allowing performers to customize the sequence. Influences from Milbourne Christopher and Gary Kurtz add depth to the method, making it both baffling and structured.

For those looking to improve their coin magic, this routine offers strong foundational techniques and performance tips. The teaching style is clear, making it a solid choice for intermediate magicians.