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Coin Wand. Maker Unknown, ca. 1900–10.
A Coin Wand incorporating a lever-operated clamshell mechanism and a gimmicked 1899 Barber half dollar. Measures approximately 14" with the coin extended. Original black finish. Mechanism functions as intended. Good condition.
Hindoo Wands. Maker Unknown, ca. 1920s–40s.
A finely made pair of oversized Chinese Sticks, finished in turquoise, red, and gold paint with decorative brass and beaded tassels. As one tassel is pulled downward, the tassel on the companion wand mysteriously rises, despite the two wands being shown separate from one another. A classic of stage magic, the effect has remained a favorite of performers for well over a century.
The distinctive construction, paint scheme, and original labeled storage box suggest a small-scale or custom-made production rather than a widely marketed model. Despite extensive inquiries among experienced collectors and dealers, the maker has not been identified, and comparable examples have yet to surface.
Retains the original labeled box marked "Hindoo Wands." Paint wear consistent with age and use. Measures approximately 12½". A scarce and intriguing variation of one of magic's most enduring classics.
Cube-On Release. Abbott's, ca. 1970s.
A visual penetration effect in which a solid wooden block, threaded onto two lengths of rope and secured within a display stand, is visibly pulled free while the ropes remain in the spectators' hands. The stand is immediately shown empty, with the ropes still passing through its open center. Originally designed by Jack Hughes and marketed by Abbott's, Hughes described the effect as "the epitome of all block releases."
Constructed of painted wood with brass hardware and gold striping. Includes the original photocopied instructions. Minor wear consistent with age and use. Very good condition.
Spirit Bell. Conradi-Horster, Berlin, ca. 1919.
A classic spiritualistic effect from Conradi-Horster of Berlin, among the most influential manufacturers of magic apparatus in the early twentieth century. Suspended from the magician’s wand, the glass bell serves as an oracle, responding to questions from the performer or audience by ringing once for “yes” and twice for “no.”
The apparatus consists of the original glass bell with ringer and matching wand. The bell measures approximately 5” in diameter; the wand measures approximately 13½” long.
Light wear consistent with age and use, including minor finish loss to the wand and age-related wear to the metal fittings. Very good condition overall.
An uncommon surviving example of early twentieth-century spiritualistic apparatus from one of magic’s most respected makers.
House of Java. Owen Magic Supreme, ca. 1980s.
An oversized version of the classic Silk Cabby in the form of a birdhouse. Hinged doors on both sides open to show the interior empty before a substantial production of silks is made from within. Measures approximately 12 × 6 × 8 inches. Minor wear consistent with age and use. Very good condition.
Mike & Ike. Val Evans / Max Holden, ca. 1940s.
A mechanical routine marketed by Max Holden as a “Holden Exclusive,” using two collapsible cube shells, six solid wooden cubes, two folding display screens decorated with automobiles, and a miniature jug to illustrate a story of two fishermen, Mike and Ike. As the narrative unfolds, the cubes are transferred between the two display boxes until the final revelation, in which one fisherman is shown to have caught all of the fish while the other is left with only the jug.
Constructed of painted wood with folding painted display screens and accompanied by an original typed two-page instruction manuscript bearing Val Evans’ name at the top. Also included is the original Max Holden catalog advertisement for the effect, priced at $8.00.
Complete with six solid cubes, two shell cubes, folding display screens, jug, original typed instructions, and original catalog advertisement. Minor paint wear and expected handling marks throughout. Instructions show toning, creasing, and edge wear from age and use. Overall a very good example of a scarce Holden exclusive from the mid-twentieth century.
Multiplying and Manipulation Pocket Watches. Germany, ca. 1930s.
Group of imitation pocket watches designed for multiplying, vanishing, and manipulation routines. Includes examples with two distinct dial designs as well as a variety of construction types, including hinged, nesting, and hook-equipped watches for stage and sleight-of-hand performance.
Manufactured in Germany during the early twentieth century, these lightweight metal watches were produced for professional manipulators and stage magicians, allowing the repeated appearance, disappearance, and production of multiple watches during a routine.
Includes eight imitation pocket watches representing several styles and methods. No instructions. Expected wear from age and use, including oxidation to the metal surfaces, age toning to the dials, and one cracked dial cover. Overall very good condition.
Ultra Glass Through Hat. Petrie & Lewis (P&L), New Haven, ca. 1940.
A glass of water resting on a brass candlestick is covered with a handkerchief and visibly penetrates the crown of a borrowed hat.
Sand-driven brass stand resembling a candlestick. Hallmarked on the underside. Accompanied by the original, worn instructions. Glass and handkerchief not included. Measures approximately [height] inches tall. Retains the original finish with noticeable wear and oxidation throughout. Mechanism operates smoothly. Cosmetically good; mechanically very good.
Traveling Block. Haenchen, ca. 1970s.
A red block stacked between yellow and blue blocks vanishes beneath a decorated metal cover before reappearing elsewhere.
Retains the original painted wooden base, three painted wooden blocks, and decorated metal cover. Hallmarked. Measures approximately 4 × 4 × 10 inches. Minor wear consistent with age and use. Very good condition.
Spring Production Baby, ca. 1930s.
A collapsible production doll designed for appearance from a borrowed hat or other production apparatus. Constructed with a painted papier-mâché head featuring hand-painted facial details, cloth body, pink-painted hands, lace-trimmed sleeves, floral bib, ribbon accents, and matching bonnet.
Production babies of this type were a popular feature of stage and club magic during the early twentieth century, providing a surprising and highly visible climax to production routines while collapsing flat for concealment before performance.
Minor wear to the painted head and expected age-related toning and light soiling to the fabric costume. Presents well and retains its original costume and painted features. Measures approximately 21 inches in length.
Change Bag. Los Angeles: F.G. Thayer & Co., ca. 1930.
Plush red bag with finely turned wooden handle and zippered bottom. Used to switch, vanish, or produce objects. Minor wear to the painted finish; otherwise very good. Uncommon in this format.
Tenyo Illusion Truck T-241 — Pristine, Factory Sealed
A clever miniature magic trick from Tenyo’s sought-after Magic Collection. Make the included lion figurine vanish inside a handkerchief, then instantly reappear inside the seemingly empty toy circus truck. Its ingenious built-in gimmick creates an impressive stage-style illusion right on your tabletop.
Made in Japan and created by Takayuki Kumazawa, with instructions by Steve Cohen.
This example is in pristine condition and remains unopened in its original blister packaging. The package includes the gimmicked toy truck, lion figurine, and instructions.
Bob Haskell's Tear-A-Button. Al Sharpe's Studio of Magic, Chicago, ca. 1960s.
A spectator's coat button is torn from the jacket with an audible ripping sound. After the button is displayed, it is restored to the spectator's coat.
Complete with the original gimmicked and matching ungimmicked buttons, original printed envelope, and original typed instructions. Envelope exhibits tears, creasing, and paper loss. Instructions show fold wear consistent with storage. Good condition.
Hot Spot. R. Vernon Cook. A Star Magic Product, ca. 1970s.
A wand is passed completely through a small wooden block. After the block is turned to face the audience, the wand is again inserted but appears to vanish within the block rather than emerging from the opposite side. The wand is then withdrawn, and both the block and wand may be handed to a spectator for examination. Includes wooden block, wand, original box, and instruction sheet. Light wear from age and use. Very good condition overall.
Magic Clock. Vienna Magic, ca. 1993.
A compact electronic mentalism effect in which a spectator freely turns the pointer on a miniature clock face to any hour, closes the wooden box, and hands it to the performer. Without reopening the box, the performer is able to reveal the selected time.
Constructed of varnished wood with a blue and gilt clock dial, red pointer, brass hardware, and concealed electronic signaling system. Includes the original printed instructions in both German and English. Measures approximately 4 × 4 × 2". Minor wear. Very good condition.
The Goof Ball. Bev Taylor / Town House Magic, ca. 1950s–60s.
A pocket novelty effect by Bev Taylor in which two identical-looking rubber balls exhibit contrasting properties. One ball rebounds normally when dropped, while the other appears nearly lifeless, allowing a variety of comedy presentations and sleight-of-hand sequences. The original instructions include additional routine suggestions by Bobo.
Includes the original labeled container, two original rubber balls, and typed instructions.
Container exhibits moderate wear from age and use, including surface wear, edge wear, and loss to the paper covering the lid. Instructions show folds and age toning consistent with storage. Both original rubber balls remain soft, pliable, and in remarkably well-preserved condition with light handling wear. Good condition overall.
Penetro-Coin (T-37). Tenyo, 1969.
A borrowed coin is dropped beneath a handkerchief into a glass. The coin vanishes and is discovered inside a bag contained within two nested containers.
Complete with the original box, instructions, and unused contents. The contents were removed from the original packaging for photography only. Box shows minor shelf wear consistent with age. Contents remain unused. Excellent condition.
Kenard's Nu-Koin Mystery. Kenard Mfg. Co., ca. 1930s.
A coin vanishes from between two solid wooden blocks before reappearing in an impossible location. Complete with the original box, illustrated instructions, original gimmicked shell coin, card, and wooden blocks. Patent No. 2,199,818 noted on the instructions. Box shows light wear consistent with age. Instructions exhibit moderate creasing and edge wear. Components remain in very good condition.
Dots Impossible. Al Cohen / ALCO Products. ca. 1950s–60s.
A compact packet effect marketed by ALCO Products and credited to Al Cohen. Six spot cards are displayed face down and a spectator freely selects one. When the chosen card is turned over it proves to be the only card of its color, while the remaining five are all shown to match, creating a direct and highly visual climax.
Includes the original printed paper envelope with humorous cover artwork, six spot cards, and the original typed instruction sheet.
The paper envelope exhibits age toning, light soiling, and minor edge wear consistent with age. The cards remain clean with light handling wear, and the original instructions are present. Very good condition overall.
Hyper Vision. Tomoyuki Shimomura. Tenyo, 1989.
A classic Tenyo mentalism effect created by Tomoyuki Shimomura in which a spectator appears to develop extraordinary mindreading abilities, correctly identifying a freely selected ESP symbol under seemingly impossible conditions. One of Tenyo’s more memorable presentations of an ESP-themed effect, combining an engaging premise with the company’s signature inventive design.
Retains the original blister packaging with printed backing card, five ESP symbol plates, red plastic holder, and original instruction sheet. Created by Tomoyuki Shimomura, with instructions by Gary Ouellet.
Card exhibits light shelf and handling wear, including minor corner wear and age toning to the reverse. Blister remains sealed. Very good condition overall.
Dots Incredible. Al Cohen. ALCO Product. ca. 1970s.
A packet effect by Al Cohen in which black and red spotted cards repeatedly separate and reunite in an increasingly impossible series of transpositions. Designed for close-up performance, the routine relies on a small set of specially printed spot cards to create a sequence of visual color changes and impossible rearrangements.
Includes the original printed paper envelope, complete set of six spot cards, and the original typed instruction sheet.
The paper envelope exhibits light toning and minor wear from age. Instruction sheet is original and lightly folded as issued. Cards show light handling wear consistent with use. Very good condition overall.
Master Key by Terri Rogers, Martin Breese, 1997
One of the most highly regarded commercial book tests of its era, The Master Key is Terri Rogers’ ingenious multi-book mentalism system, allowing a performer to reveal a freely selected word under seemingly impossible conditions. The routine combines several classic book test principles into a versatile performance piece and was distributed in the United States by Magic City.
Includes full instructions and the complete set of specially prepared books: The Labyrinth by Brian G. Gray, Sherlock Holmes and the Houdini Birthright by Val Andrews, and The Spy by Tom Strange. Excellent condition overall.
Hot Spot. R. Vernon Cook. A Star Magic Product, ca. 1970s.
A wand is passed completely through a small wooden block. After the block is turned to face the audience, the wand is again inserted but appears to vanish within the block rather than emerging from the opposite side. The wand is then withdrawn, and both the block and wand may be handed to a spectator for examination. Includes wooden block, wand, and original photocopied instruction sheet. Light wear from age and use. Very good condition overall.
Hopkins, Albert A. Magic: Stage Illusions and Scientific Diversions. NY: Munn & Co., 1906.
Covers stage conjuring, scientific recreations, and trick photography. Illustrated throughout.
Green cloth stamped in black and red. Tall octavo. Hinge loose at center. Cloth shows scuffing and soiling consistent with age. Good condition.
Nelson Enterprises Catalog No. 17. Nelson Enterprises, 1936.
An illustrated sales catalog issued by Nelson Enterprises of Columbus, Ohio, featuring effects and supplies for mind reading, astrology, crystal gazing, and related branches of mental magic. In addition to advertising the firm's products, the catalog offers a period snapshot of one of the leading American publishers and manufacturers of mental magic during the 1930s. Original blue pictorial wrappers featuring an Art Deco cover design. Complete as issued. Light handling wear and toning consistent with age and use.
Expert Billiard Ball Manipulation. Burling Hull, 1928.
Fifth Printing, Deluxe Edition. First published in 1910, Expert Billiard Ball Manipulation became one of the standard English-language works on billiard ball manipulation and remained an influential reference for generations of performers. Illustrated throughout with nearly 200 photographic studies, the work covers palming, productions, vanishes, acquitments, multiplying billiard balls, color changes, stage presentation, and the use of specialized apparatus and gimmicks.
Original gilt pictorial wrappers. Includes Part One (Fifth Printing, Deluxe Edition) together with Part Two, which incorporates the complete text of Parts One and Two. Part One retains the original promotional wraparound band. Light handling wear and rubbing consistent with age and use. A well-preserved set of a classic work on manipulative magic.
The Invisible Pass. Jean Hugard and Frederick Braue. First Edition, 1946.
The first book devoted entirely to the pass, one of the most important sleights in card magic. Jean Hugard and Frederick Braue provide a detailed study of the technique, covering its mechanics, timing, naturalness, variations, and practical applications. Illustrated throughout with photographs and line drawings, the work remains one of the definitive treatments of this classic move.
First edition, published in 1946. Hardcover bound in the original blue cloth with silver-stamped lettering and illustration on the front cover. Minor wear consistent with age and handling. Binding is sound. Internally clean. Good condition overall.
List of Magic. Jack Hughes manufacturers of magic equipment. Orange wrappers, illustrated. Very good condition. Includes price list.
The World's Greatest Magic. Hyla M. Clark. Photographs by Paul Levin. New York: Tree Communications, Inc., 1976. First Printing.
A lavishly illustrated survey of modern conjuring featuring thirty-two of the twentieth century's foremost magicians. Combining biographical sketches, performance photography, and explanations of selected effects, the book offers an engaging look at many of the performers who helped shape magic during the 1970s.
Among the magicians represented are Doug Henning, Harry Blackstone, Jr., Kreskin, Harry Lorayne, Milbourne Christopher, Tony Slydini, Al Goshman, Mark Wilson, and numerous other leading performers from the era. Hundreds of color and black-and-white photographs by Paul Levin capture these artists both on stage and behind the scenes, making the volume as much a visual record of modern magic as an instructional work.
Bound in black cloth and retaining the original pictorial dust jacket. The jacket shows light shelf wear consistent with age, while the book remains clean, sound, and well preserved.
A handsome first printing documenting a remarkable generation of magicians, equally appealing to collectors of conjuring literature and those interested in the history of twentieth-century magic.
Inscribed and Signed by Penn Jillette and Teller. Penn & Teller's How to Play with Your Food. Penn Jillette and Teller. New York: Villard Books, 1992.
A humorous collection of culinary pranks, visual gags, and unconventional experiments from Penn & Teller. Blending sleight of hand, science, illusion, and irreverent comedy, the book presents dozens of playful ways to transform ordinary meals into memorable entertainment. Illustrated throughout with photographs and drawings. This copy is inscribed on the title page, "Nice lunching with you. Especially since you paid," and signed by both Penn Jillette and Teller.
Illustrated softcover. Light handling wear consistent with age and use. A clean, well-preserved copy.
Confessions of a Ghost Hunter. Harry Price. New York: Causeway Books, 1974.
The classic memoir of Harry Price, one of the twentieth century's foremost investigators of alleged paranormal phenomena. Drawing upon decades of research into haunted houses, séances, spirit mediums, and unexplained occurrences, Price recounts many of the investigations that established his reputation as both a pioneering psychical researcher and one of the era's most influential—and controversial—figures. Originally published in 1936, this Causeway Books edition introduced Price's firsthand accounts to a new generation of readers.
Bound in black cloth and retaining the original illustrated dust jacket, featuring a striking portrait design. The dust jacket shows light rubbing and handling wear consistent with age, while the book itself remains clean and well preserved. A handsome copy.
Men Who Wouldn't Stay Dead. Ida Clyde Clarke. New York: Richard R. Smith, 1945.
A collection of twenty-eight accounts of ghosts, hauntings, apparitions, and other supernatural phenomena compiled by journalist and psychical researcher Ida Clyde Clarke. Drawing upon historical records and firsthand reports, Clarke presents a series of well-known cases that helped shape twentieth-century interest in the paranormal, spiritualism, and psychical research.
Bound in the publisher's blue cloth and retaining the original illustrated dust jacket, featuring striking Art Deco-style typography and cover artwork. The dust jacket shows a large chip to the lower front panel, together with edge wear and rubbing consistent with age, yet remains bright and visually appealing. The book itself is clean and sound, with light shelf wear.
An attractive 1945 edition of a classic work on the supernatural, retaining its original dust jacket and well suited to collectors of ghost literature, spiritualism, psychical research, and occult history.
The Romance of Sorcery. Sax Rohmer. Causeway Books, 1973.
A hardcover reprint of Sax Rohmer's classic 1914 study of magic, witchcraft, and the occult. Best known as the creator of Dr. Fu Manchu, Rohmer explores the history and traditions of ceremonial magic, alchemy, divination, spiritualism, and legendary practitioners of the occult. Blending historical research with period accounts and folklore, the work has long been appreciated by collectors of magic and allied arts for its engaging survey of the mystical traditions that have influenced conjuring and illusion.
Retains the original illustrated dust jacket. Light shelf wear consistent with age, including minor rubbing to the jacket. A clean, well-preserved copy well suited to both collectors of magical literature and readers interested in the history of the occult.
New England Magicians’ Convention Broadside. Boston, 1939.
Promotional broadside for the 7th Annual New England Magicians’ Convention, held at the Hotel Bradford in Boston on October 7–8, 1939. Printed in an attractive Art Deco style, the handbill advertises a weekend of performances, contests, exhibits, and special events.
Featured performers include Jean Hugard, Al Baker, Max Holden, The Floyds, Kardyro, Val Evans, Valentine, and others, offering a snapshot of the American magic scene in the opening weeks of World War II.
Illustrated with a rabbit-and-top-hat motif and boldly titled “Here’s Your Check,” the piece combines strong graphic design with historical significance. Light wear consistent with age. Very good condition.
Trix & Chatter. Dorny. Copyright 1921.
A collection of magic patter, presentations, and performance material by Dorny. Copyright 1921. Dedicated to The Sphinx, described on the dedication page as “the best and most popular magical journal in the world.”
Bound in the original publisher’s blue cloth with black-stamped pictorial cover and spine. This copy bears the bookplate of magician and collector Vernon Cook.
The text block remains complete. The front cover and spine are loose from the text block, with separation at the hinges. Binding exhibits moderate shelf wear, including rubbing at the extremities and light soiling. Internally clean with age toning consistent with its age. Good condition overall.
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Featured Items
From The Magic Shop
Miracle Dove Act. Grant/MAK Magic, ca. 1980s
A stage effect in which one or two doves are removed from a cage and placed into a small chest. The chest is then taken apart piece by piece, showing the doves have vanished. With a wave of the hand, the doves visibly reappear back in the cage.
Attractive blue, black, and copper-finished props with peacock-themed decoration. Among the more expensive offerings in the Grant/MAK catalog. Includes photocopied instructions. Cage measures 15 × 10.5 × 8.5”. Chest measures 13.5 × 9 × 6”. Excellent, near mint condition.
Merv Taylor, ca. 1959
Merv Taylor’s Por-Mor/Fil-Mor set is a rare and ingenious liquid measure effect. The slender Por-Mor vessel, despite its deceptively small profile, is able to completely fill the companion Fil-Mor glass—a hefty 22-ounce malt glass—seemingly defying logic.
Introduced in the late 1950s, this clever combination quickly became a favorite among working professionals for its practicality and surprise factor, and today stands as one of Taylor’s more seldom-seen creations.
Finely machined in metal and glass, reflecting Taylor’s reputation for precision craftsmanship.Merv Taylor hallmark on Por-Mor. Includes original box (damaged). Apparatus in excellent condition.
Jumbo Slat Card Frame. Owen Brothers, ca. 1940s
An open slat frame is shown with a jumbo size card showing through the openings. On command the card instantly disappears or if desired, a card may be changed by simply passing it through the frame. Measures approx. 8” x 5 ¼. Minor wear to finish, otherwise in very good condition. Original instructions included.
Tambor. Merv Taylor, ca. 1950s.
From Ken Klosterman’s renowned Salon de Magie (inventory no. K1924).
A classic production device in which an abundance of silks appears from two metal rings, previously shown empty and capped with tissue. Constructed in brass and copper and hallmarked by the maker. Measures 10” in diameter. Minor age wear. With original box. Very good condition.
Chinese Sticks. Haenchen (Viking), mid-20th century.
Red lacquered sticks with gold-painted ends, bases stamped HAENCHEN. 14” length. Smooth, precise action. Minor chipping to end caps; very good condition overall. Original instructions and red velvet carrying bag included. No longer made.
Davenport Cabinet. Circa 1875
A coin or small object inserted into the cabinet's drawer vanishes when the drawer is reopened. Unusual version with closed bottom of the outer case. Hardwood construction with ivory-like knob. Early example. Height 4".
Chop Chop’s Egglass. Al Wheatley, mid-20th century.
Gimmicked stemmed glass for the classic egg on fan style effect using a brandy snifter style glass. Crumpled paper placed in the bowl visibly becomes a real egg, which may be broken into the glass. With original printed instructions. Glass intact; light wear to metal base. Measures 7 inches tall. Very good condition. Uncommon.
Television Frame. Bob Kline, ca. 1950–1959. One of 24 made.
Painted wooden “television” frame with gilt-trimmed viewing window and original base, styled after early portable TV sets. The screen is covered with paper, secured by a wooden retaining ring (present here, and often missing). The covered frame is displayed upright; the paper is then broken, followed by a production of silks from the opening, the frame shown otherwise empty. An uncommon, limited-production piece from Kline. Screen approximately 12” square. Visible wear to paint and finish consistent with age and use. Good condition.
Obedio Ball. Los Angeles: F.G. Thayer [?], ca. 1930s to 1940s.
A clever Thayer control effect. A black ball travels along a length of cord, stopping and releasing at the performer’s command. Ball measures approximately 3 ¼” in diameter, threaded on cord with metal rings. Smooth, responsive internal mechanism. Light wear with minor scuffing consistent with age. Very good condition. A scarce item, seldom encountered.
Karson Two-Hole Wrist Chopper. Owen Magic Supreme, ca. 1990s.
Hardwood stocks with fitted metal blade, cut with two circular openings. The blade is shown for examination before use. A spectator places both wrists through the stocks, which are secured; handcuffs may be added. The blade is then driven downward, passing through the wrists. Stocks are opened to show the interior empty; the spectator is unharmed. Wood finish recently restored by Paul Lembo. Includes original ATA case (foam requires replacement). Hallmarked.
Magician’s Side Table. Boston: W.D. LeRoy, ca. 1910
Cast composition metal side table in the familiar stork-leg style associated with W.D. LeRoy. The center rod is supported by four flat metal legs decorated with raised floral motifs and stork figures. As with other known examples, the legs disassemble for easier packing, a feature mentioned in period advertising.
A period endorsement attributed to Harry Kellar reads: “I have traveled all over the world, and must acknowledge they are the handsomest tables I have ever seen.”
Approximately 34” high; top 14 × 12”.
Milson-Worth, ca. 1980s.
A spectator's wrist is unharmed when the blade is pushed through the stocks, but the carrot underneath his hand is chopped in two. Finely made from hardwood with gold finish and pinstriping. Height 15". Some wear to paint and veneer, otherwise in very good and fully operational condition.
Owen Magic Supreme.
Finely finished circus wagon designed for the visible production of a live rabbit. A classic Owen stage piece, beautifully constructed. Measures 16 × 10 × 12 inches. Excellent, near-fine condition with original instructions.
Azusa: Owen Magic Supreme, 2000s
A classic of magic, in which milk poured from a clear 2-quart Lucite pitcher into a paper cone vanishes completely. Constructed of heavy-duty Lucite with a thin, seamless design patterned after the original Merv Taylor model. Height 9¼”. Regarded as one of the finest and most durable versions of this professional utility prop. Minor wear, very good condition overall. Hallmarked.
Imperial Rice, Orange and Checkers. MAK Magic, designed by Jimmy King, 1978.
A large stack of checkers, a quantity of rice, and an orange transpose among three tubes. Minor wear, otherwise in very good condition. Includes faux orange and original instructions. Supply your own rice.
Click here to see a performance by the fabulous Keith Raleigh
The Miracle Glass. D. Robbins & Co., ca. 1940s
A classic vanishing milk effect, devised by John Frank—winner of first prize in liquid magic at the 1947 I.B.M. Convention in Pittsburgh. The effect allows the magician to pour milk (or other liquid) into the glass, only for it to mysteriously vanish at command. Mild toning to the original celluloid insert, otherwise in very good condition. Complete with original container and instructions.
Cups and Balls. Owen Magic Supreme, ca. 1970
Beautifully polished set of three spun aluminum cups by Owen Magic Supreme, each 3 3/8” high with a 2 1/8” mouth. Owen’s cups are celebrated for their balance, precision, and graceful design.
In the long tradition of the Cups and Balls, Owen’s engineering offered 20th-century magicians a professional-grade apparatus that combined practicality with elegance. Light wear, very good condition.
Mini Phantom Tube. Petrie & Lewis, ca. 1930s-1940s
A miniature version of the classic production tube by the New Haven makers. Tissue paper is placed over both ends of the empty tube; the papers are burst, and a silk is produced from within. Measures approximately 3.5 inches high. Includes original box. Wear to the finish consistent with age; overall very good. Uncommon in this size.
Eddie Gibson’s Money Blotter. Sold by The Magic Hands (Germany), ca. mid-20th century.
Classic blotter-style money printing effect attributed to Eddie Gibson. A blank piece of paper is placed within the tray, pressed with the brass blotter, and transformed into a genuine banknote. Well-made with gilt-finished tray and brass blotter with decorative knob.
The method is simple, deceptive, and practical in performance. Accommodates any currency that fits the tray.
Complete with mechanical blotter, gimmicked plate, magnet for removal, and original illustrated instructions (German). Light wear consistent with age. Measures 7.5 × 5”. Excellent condition.
Scarce, and rarely encountered complete.
Ring of Cinimod (Deluxe Model). P. Cinimod, 1975.
Close-up penetration effect in which a bracelet visibly frees itself from a slotted aluminum block under impossible conditions. Complete with bracelet, block, pin, and gimmick. Original packaging and illustrated instructions included. Box shows light wear; contents very good.
Harries Fingerborgs-trick (Thimble Trick). Sweden: Harries Magic, ca. early–mid 20th century.
“Det bästa Fingerborgstricket” (“The best thimble trick”). Boxed thimble routine billed as a sensation for performance, culminating in the production of eight oversized thimbles in succession—four white wooden and four white-painted metal examples. Complete with original printed carton, production gimmick, and instructions. Box with “Vita” retailer stamp. An unusually well-preserved example, retaining its original wraps and crisp presentation. Light wear from age; contents clean and scarcely handled. Very good to near fine.
Wooden Finger Chopper. Maker Unknown
An unusual and scarce version of the finger chopper. Works like a Clarence Miller model, but has a much nicer design. Includes velvet storage bag. No instructions. Very good condition.
Nest of Boxes, ca. mid-1900s. Edwin A. Dawes Collection
Six circular boxes with matching lids, exquisitely turned in wood. Very good condition. Largest box measures approx. 2 ¼” in diameter, 1 ¼” high . From the collection of Edwin A. Dawes.
Mark Jacobs, 1943
A ribbon penetrates a wood frame at the command of the magician. The original version of this clever penetration invented by Mark Jacobs and built by John Snyder in 1943.
Excellent condition. Includes original instructions (photocopied).
Eddy Taytelbaum, ca. 1970, Holland
One side of a paddle shows the number six, the other side a nine. With a wave, both sides show the sum of the numbers: 15. Two handmade Lucite paddles. Gold paint shows wear.
Steve Dusheck, ca. 1986
The magician asks a spectator to think of a number on a die and place it, number-up, onto a wooden card case. The die is then clenched tightly in their fist. Turning back, the magician removes a set of cards numbered Ace through Six, focuses briefly, then reveals the exact number the spectator had in mind. Rare and hard to find.
Petrie and Lewis Foo Can, ca. 1960s
Liquid is made to vanish and reappear in the beautifully spun can. Very good, near fine condition. Measures approximately 4 3/4”
Flash Houlette. Merv Taylor, 1950s.
A selected card mysteriously rises from the deck after the cards are placed into the clear acrylic houlette. Includes gimmicked deck. Measures 4 ½ x 2 ½ x 1”. In good condition. Hallmarked.
Early Eddy Taytelbaum classic paddle trick hand crafted in wood. Painted wood and red Lucite handle. Measures 6 × 3/4”.
A.C. Gilbert/Mysto, ca. 1930s
From Ken Klosterman’s Salon de Magie. A classic mystery from the early Mysto line. Three painted wooden rockets are presented, each distinctively finished in patriotic colors. A spectator secretly selects one and slides it into the black tube, securing it with the fitted cap. The remaining rockets are concealed in a pocket hidden from view.
Despite the performer’s back being turned, and the chosen rocket completely sealed from view, the magician is able to identify the spectator’s selection.
Wood elements show handling and age-appropriate wear. Very good overall condition. Rockets measure 7” in length. A pleasing example of a seldom-encountered Mysto apparatus.
Includes Ken Klosterman’s inventory number on inside cap.
Color Changing Knife. Enardoe, ca. 1960s [?]
The classic color changing knives effect from Enardoe. Black and white set with blades that unlock by pressing on the blade and tilting the knife to release the pin lock. Includes original box and instructions. Note one end of box is missing and tape has been applied. Wear with age, very good condition overall.
Flash Dice (T-72). Tenyo, ca. 1976
Six dice are dropped into the case and given a shake, yet when the lid lifts, they’ve arranged themselves perfectly from one to six. Original instructions included. Damage to original packaging.
A Magician Among the Spirits: The Original Manuscript. Harry Houdini (Erik Weisz, 1874–1926). Washington, D.C.: Kaufman & Greenberg, 1996.
Facsimile edition reproducing the original typescript of Houdini’s final work exposing fraudulent spirit mediums and spiritualist deception. Illustrated and bound in full black cloth with mounted cover portrait, housed in the original matching slipcase. One of 1,000 copies issued. Book in excellent condition; slipcase with minor wear. An important Houdini reference and desirable addition to collections of Houdiniana and magic history.
Rauscher the Magician Good Luck Throw-Out Card, ca. 1950s–60s.
Promotional audience giveaway card featuring Rauscher with colorful theatrical imagery on the front and a portrait with “Good Luck” on the reverse. Produced as a souvenir piece for performance audiences. Light wear consistent with age; very good overall.
Stephen Minch. The Vernon Chronicles. Tahoma: L&L, 1987–1996. Four volumes.
Illustrated. Publisher’s cloth with pictorial dust jackets. A complete set of Minch’s landmark work documenting the teachings, routines, and thinking of Dai Vernon. From the personal library of the famed mentalist The Amazing Kreskin, bearing his ownership signature in ink. Near fine.
Goodyear Theatre Program, Thurston, The Master Magician. Week beginning Dec. 31, 1928.
Single-sheet program issued for Howard Thurston, detailing the “Order of Illusions” across three parts, including the Levitation of Princess Karnac, Spirit Cabinet, and The Vanishing Whippet, with cast and staff listings. Toning and light wear consistent with age; minor creasing and small loss at lower corner. Presents well.
Carter the Great — Carter Beats the Devil. Otis Litho Co., Cleveland, ca. 1930.
Color lithograph window card depicting Carter the Great seated at a poker table with the Devil, revealing the winning hand. A classic image associated with Carter. Light creasing and short edge tears. 22 × 14”.
Merlin Broadway Window Card. New York: Mark Hellinger Theatre, 1983.
Original window card poster for Merlin, starring Doug Henning, with Chita Rivera. Striking full-color artwork depicting Henning conjuring a glowing sphere, surrounded by imagery from the production. Card stock construction, approx. 14 x 22”. Minor edge wear and light handling; presents well. Very good.
Zingone’s Recorded Card Tricks. New York: Magic Record Co., 1939
A scarce and historically significant instructional set consisting of three 78rpm phonograph records, each capturing Luis Zingone’s celebrated card techniques in his own voice. Issued by the Magic Record Company, this pioneering attempt to teach conjuring through sound recordings was among the earliest audio-based instructional media in magic. Complete with the original cloth-covered case and the printed instructional booklet. Case shows staining; discs exhibit minor wear consistent with age. Overall, very good condition—a rare survival of this fragile medium, and an important artifact from the golden age of recorded magic instruction.
Original Signed Photograph of Carl Ballantine, 1945
Carl Ballantine (1917–2009), born Meyer Kessler, was a seminal figure in 20th-century magic and comedy. Known professionally as “The Great Ballantine”, he is widely credited as the originator of comedy magic—a performance style that intentionally subverted traditional illusions for humorous effect. His vaudeville-inspired act, marked by deliberately flawed tricks and sharp-witted commentary, paved the way for a new genre of performance that would influence generations of magicians and comedians alike.
D. Robbins & Co., New York
Official Membership Card, “Magicians’ Union.” Printed card stock “membership” card produced by D. Robbins & Co., likely intended as a lighthearted novelty item referencing the conjuring fraternity. Ornamental border and humorous text cautioning against revealing magical secrets. Measures approximately. 3.75 × 2.25”.
Dr. Q’s Sight Unseen or the Real Blindfold Eye Act. Thayer Studio of Magic, 1944.
Instructional manuscript, seven stapled pages in the original blue paper wrapper. An uncommon survival in this format.
Collection of Six Throw-Out Cards.
Colon Blackstone Society (August 12, 1977); An Extra Good Joker — Tommy Windsor (Ace of Club Entertainers); Heaney the Magician (Good Luck to You); Melinda, First Lady of Magic; Ernest K. Schieldge, The Magical Humorist; Hormann Magic Co., New York. Good to very good vintage condition.
Midget Bagatelle. Early 20th century, U.S.
Lithographed metal tabletop bagatelle with original scoring graphics, steel balls, and folding wire legs. Printed instructions on the reverse. Light wear consistent with age; displays well.
Sideshow “Four-Eyed Man” Wall-Mount Bottle Opener.
Cast iron novelty bottle opener depicting a classic sideshow four-eyed man. All original, with minor paint loss consistent with age. Designed as a wall mount, using the open mouth to remove bottle caps. Measures approximately 3.5 inches wide.
Modern Hand Shadows: Describing the Real Art of Shadowgraphy.
Max Holden, 1935.Pictorial wrappers. Illustrated. 32 pages. Very good condition
Little Johnny Jones. Chicago: Magic Inc., 1990 (reprint).
Pictorial wrappers. Illustrated. 76 pages. Inscribed by the author to David and Virginia Price. Clean, well-preserved example.
Owen Magic Supreme Catalog with Inserts, 1959
Catalog No. 5, issued in 1959 when Carl Owen was operating from 334 S. San Pedro Street in downtown Los Angeles. A substantial, well-illustrated volume featuring artwork by Nelson Hahne and Roland Hill, complemented by numerous period photographs throughout.
75 pages, measuring approximately 9 × 12 inches. Includes two original insert letters: one announcing Owen’s then-new line of signature magic, and a second offering a special promotion on working plans. Rare to find with original inserts.
New in Our Collection…
Recently added to our collection following its appearance at Potter & Potter Auctions, this ca. 1905 window card for Maro, Prince of Magic was printed by Thayer & Jackson of Chicago. Combining a dramatic photographic portrait with bold red typography, it is an excellent example of early magic advertising and the graphic design that helped define an era of theatrical performance.
…Offered for Yours
The Magic of Slydini… And More
Originally issued under the title The Magic of Slydini… And More, this scarce first issue was quickly withdrawn following a publishing rights dispute and later reissued as The Best of Slydini… And More. Only about 100 copies were released under the original title. This copy is inscribed by Slydini to Sol Stone, uniting two legendary names in close-up magic.
Davenports
Featured Collection
Multiplying Pocket Watches
Nest of Boxes
Wonder Box
Penetra Spheres
Davenport Cabinet
Phantom Clock
Elusive Rabbits
Centenary Box
Vanishing Handkerchief
Wrist Chopper
Cigarette Production Box
Double Block Release
Talking Skull. Unknown maker, ca. mid-20th century.
An imitation skull mounted on a turned wooden base that mysteriously answers questions by rapping once for "yes" and twice for "no." Operates by thread. Previously offered in the Potter & Potter Winter Magic Auction, January 2026. Measures approximately 10½ × 6¼ × 6½ inches. Minor wear consistent with age and use. Very good condition.