"MY THOUGHTS:
This is such a simple idea that the method flies past everybody
including magicians and mentalists alike. Having said that, it really
does come down to the structure of the routine and not emphasising the
importance of the coins. This is where Dave Forrest has done a great
job.
The coin that came with mine was a US coin, and even knowing the gimmick
coin you could look at both a real coin and this one and still not tell
the difference. Apparently that is the difference between Version 1 and
Version 2. The machining on V2 is a little less obvious than V1, but in
all honesty it is also harder to know which is the gimmick coin and
which is not. One suggestion is to use a new coin which would make the
gaff quite different once you know the secret.
This version differs in presentation from some of the electronic or
magnetic versions in that one coin is held by the performer rather than
both held by the spectator. As soon as that coin is in your hand you
know if it’s the signed coin or not. Having performed electronic
versions as well as this one for lay people, the effect is pretty much
the same and both get the same reactions.
It’s definitely a routine professionals will add to their working
repertoire and perfect for walk-about or strolling gigs.
INSTRUCTIONS:
I wonder if the DVD was made BEFORE the new coins were produced, because
it isn’t as easy to find the gaff as the one used in the DVD. Even
knowing the secret I had some trouble distinguishing one from the other.
I decided to make my own gaff coin and found it much better than one
supplied, also I was able to use a Canadian coin which I prefer anyway.
I’m sure if you wanted in your own currency you could gaff a coin once
you know the secret, and that is my advice if you don’t like in the UK
or USA.
Overall, the routine is well structured and has a great finale with a
business card prediction. I perform it exactly as on the DVD and it’s a
very strong piece that plays big in a strolling environment.
I really like this for it’s simplicity and structure of the routine.
Once I made my own gaff coin I had no trouble performing it with
confidence. I suggest using a brand new non-gaff coin along with the
gaff to make it easier to perform should you use the coin supplied. -Paul Romhany, *Reviews Vanish Magazine