The Coin Magician’s Dream, photo art by Steven Carlson

In the art of close-up-magic, coin magic easily finds its place toward the top of the most challenging skills.

Coins, along with playing cards, are the primary objects in the close-up magician’s repertoire.

Historically coins predate playing cards by a good three to four thousand years.

Coins were first introduced as a method of payment around the 6th or 5th century BC and have been in the magician’s bag of tricks ever since.

In the magician’s hands coins appear, vanish and multiply. They magically move from place to place or from hand to hand, visibly and invisibly. Coins change from sliver to copper and even grow in size. The possibilities of magic with coins is limitless.

Coin magic relies upon the intricate dexterity of the artist. Dexterous skills acquired through years of practice, training and performance.

A master sleight of hand artist’s technique is never seen. To the audience it is invisible. These graceful methodologies lie gently hidden beneath the surface of natural movements and gestures. Only then does the coin magic appear effortless and impossible.

My name is Steven Paul Carlson, I have been practicing magic since I was 6 years old and I have been performing magic professionally for over 40 years.

So sit back and relax and enjoy the magical ride.

Oh, and please, fasten your seat belts. 😉

Photo & art credits:
Coin and photo art by Steven Paul Carlson, portrait photo by Nick Olson