The Effect

Watch as money magically multiplies right before your eyes!

Supplies

You will need a small black case containing your money paddle and a compartment for the supplied bands. Additionally, gather a bill of any denomination and six coins: two pennies, two nickels, and two dimes.

Setup

Begin by folding a bill in half, then in half again from side to side, pressing it flat along the folds. Place the folded bill on the paddle, covering the mirrors, and insert three of the special bands provided. Position the penny under the band farthest from the handle, the nickel under the center band, and the dime under the band closest to the handle. Note: Keep the remaining three coins in your pocket.

Paddle Move: This technique creates the illusion that both sides of the paddle are identical. Hold the paddle between your thumb and index finger, with the blank side facing up. As you lift the paddle to reveal the loaded side, twist it 180 degrees. This motion conceals the fact that you are showing the blank side again. Practice this move in front of a mirror to perfect your angles.

Routine

Start by demonstrating the paddle is blank on both sides using the Paddle Move. Explain the significance of the three black bands, which are money bands. With your left hand, toss the three coins onto the table. Take the penny and place it under the band farthest from the handle. Wave your left hand over the paddle and perform the Paddle Move to reveal two pennies. Repeat this process with the nickel and dime, showcasing the magic of multiplication.

Next, hold the paddle in your right hand, loaded side down. Use your left thumb to push the penny forward and free it from the band, dropping two pennies onto the table. Repeat this for the nickels and dimes. Once again, demonstrate the paddle is blank using the Paddle Move, then wave over the coins. Twist the paddle to reveal a bill appearing on one side. Snap your fingers and perform the Paddle Move to show the bill on both sides.

As quickly as the money appears, it can vanish just as fast. Snap your fingers and wave your hand to reveal the bill on one side while it has disappeared from the other. With the blank side facing up, slide off the three bands and reveal the bill. Hold it outstretched in your left hand while placing the blank paddle underneath. Ask your audience how it was done, then pivot the paddle to show the mirrors, revealing the secret: “Why, mirrors of course!”