Search The Magic Shop
Coin Fan. Tenyo, Japan, ca. 1970s.
A mechanical folding fan used to produce coins at its tip, whether the fan is displayed open or closed. The coins may be produced individually or in succession.
New old stock, opened for photography. Includes the mechanical fan, extra coin, original box, and instructions. Box retains its original store price sticker and “Made in Japan” sticker. Contents remain unused. Excellent condition.
Miser’s Dream Pail. Owen Magic Supreme, Azusa, California, ca. 1980s.
A finely made pail for the classic Miser’s Dream, in which coins are repeatedly produced and audibly dropped into the bucket. Includes an Owen hallmarked half-dollar-size coin dropper designed to attach to the interior of the pail.
Spun metal construction with decorative lion-head ring handles. Measures approximately 7" high and 7" in diameter. Shows light wear consistent with age and use. Very good condition.
Large Double Load Pagoda. U.F. Grant and James King, ca. 1970s.
A decorated production cabinet that may be shown empty before producing two separate loads. The front panel opens to reveal the interior, while a second load may subsequently be produced through the top of the cabinet. The apparatus may also be used for transformations.
Wooden construction finished in green and gold with Asian-inspired stencil decoration. Measures approximately 13 x 7 x 8". Shows wear consistent with age and use, including scattered marks and paint loss. Very good condition overall. Includes original instructions.
Sleeve Production. Janos Bartl, Hamburg, ca. 1930s.
A rectangular production cabinet is displayed empty, the open interior allows the performer’s arm to pass completely through. The cabinet is then placed on the table and a large production is made from within.
Wooden construction with a striking hand-painted geometric design in orange, blue, red, silver, and black. Measures approximately 6.5 x 6.5 x 9.5". Shows wear and paint loss consistent with age and use, otherwise very good condition.
Five-Shot Lota. Abbott’s Magic, Colon, Michigan, ca. 1950s.
A diminutive version of the classic Lota Bowl, allowing the performer to repeatedly pour liquid from the vessel after it has seemingly been emptied. Advertised by Abbott’s as capable of producing five successive drinks.
Spun brass construction with the rare chrome-plated finish. Measures approximately 3" high. An uncommon example of this Abbott apparatus, particularly in the chrome-plated version. Shows light wear consistent with age and use. Very good condition.
Lottery. Abbott’s Magic, Colon, Michigan, ca. 1980s.
A prediction effect in which four spectators are invited to freely select envelopes from a group of five, one of which contains a $10 bill. Regardless of the envelopes chosen, the performer is left with the fifth envelope containing the money. Wooden tray finished in black with gold trim. Measures approximately 12 × 8 × 1 in. Shows light wear consistent with age and use. Very good overall. No instructions included.
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.
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.
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.
Millet Bell. Maker unknown, ca. 1910.
A quantity of millet or rice vanishes from one vessel and reappears beneath the bell. Finely turned hardwood construction with a natural finish and red-painted interior.
Measures approximately 4.5" high and 2.375" in diameter at its widest point. Shows light wear consistent with age and use. Very good condition.
DeLand’s Card Locator. Theodore L. DeLand, 1914.
Printed card-locating dial devised by Theodore L. DeLand for use with his Dollar Deck. The rotating dial allows the performer to determine the location of a selected card and was intended for use with trick No. 5 of the deck. Copyright 1914 by Theodore L. DeLand.
Complete with the original illustrated envelope and original printed directions. Mild toning and age-related wear, principally to the envelope; locator itself remains well preserved. Good condition overall.
Simplex Miser’s Dream. E-Z Magic, ca. 1960s.
A practical version of the classic Miser’s Dream in which coins are repeatedly produced from the air, the performer’s clothing, or other seemingly impossible locations and dropped into a glass or other receptacle. The apparatus consists of two concealed metal coin holders, worn beneath the coat and designed to release coins individually into the performer’s hands.
Includes both original metal coin holders, original illustrated instructions, and original pictorial envelope. Light age-related wear to the apparatus and paper components; very good condition overall.
Flap Tray. F.G. Thayer & Co., Los Angeles, ca. 1925.
Mahogany tray designed to secretly exchange a group of cards for a duplicate set. Retains the original matching wooden flap and original newsprint. Measures 8 x 6". Light wear, very good condition.
Psychic Spoon. Lou Tannen, New York, ca. 1970s.
Close-up mental effect in which a spectator initials a pictured spoon before the illustration is sealed in an envelope. Upon its removal, the spoon is seen to have mysteriously bent while retaining the spectator’s initials.
Includes the original colorful illustrated packaging card, original instructions, and two complete packs of spoon cards. Produced exclusively for Lou Tannen by P. Cinimod Release. Light age-related wear; very good condition overall.
Sealed X Marks the Spot. Ernie Bryan / Star Magic, ca. mid-20th century.
A simple card force using specially printed cards. Original envelope includes two custom-printed cards and instructions.
New old stock, sealed and unused. Opened example shown for reference.
Locking Card Box. Milson-Worth, ca. 1980s.
Finely made hardwood card box constructed of walnut and fitted with a brass knob. The concealed mechanism allows playing cards placed within the box to be secretly exchanged or vanished. Includes resetting magnet. Excellent condition.
Candy’s Dandy. Mike Shelley, ca. 1970s.
A prediction effect using five familiar candy bars displayed in their original illustrated box. A spectator is given a free choice of any candy, after which the performer reveals a previously prepared prediction correctly identifying the selection. Includes five imitation candy bars, prediction card, original labeled box, and instructions. Box shows age-related spotting and wear; contents very good.
Ob-Ser-Vo. Eugene Burger, ca. early 2000s.
Eugene Burger’s presentation of the classic “Seeing What Seems” plot, in which two spectators observe the same small packet of cards yet disagree about their colors, values, and even quantities. The routine concludes with a surprising revelation that neither spectator’s observations were entirely correct. Burger’s handling eliminates sleight of hand and incorporates a suggestion by Max Maven.
New old stock condition. Complete with the original special Bicycle-backed cards, printed instructions, envelope, and original illustrated packaging. Unused, with only light age-related wear to the packaging.
Bewildered. Phil Matlin, ca. 1979.
Card prediction effect in which a spectator freely stops the performer as cards are dealt face down from a shuffled deck. The card stopped at proves to match a jumbo prediction that has remained in view from the beginning. As a further surprise, the remaining cards are shown to be entirely different from both the selected card and the prediction.
Includes the original Target deck, jumbo prediction card, envelope, printed instructions, and original illustrated packaging. Light age-related wear; very good condition overall.
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.
Harry Houdini’s Magic Made Easy. 1956 Facsimile Reproduction from The New Phoenix.
A facsimile reproduction of one of Harry Houdini’s earliest known magic publications, Magic Made Easy by Prof. Harry Houdini, King of Cards and Handcuffs. Originally issued in New York by Van Fleet, Printer, Clipper Building, circa 1898, this rare Houdini booklet combined instruction, advertising, and a catalogue of magic tricks, apparatus, books, and related material offered during the early years of Houdini’s career.
The original publication is an important piece of Houdini ephemera, documenting his work as a magician, dealer, and teacher before he became internationally famous. It includes advertisements for Houdini’s School of Magic, listings of magic books and apparatus, “Hints for Amateurs,” money-making secrets, and descriptions of numerous tricks and illusions, including the Vivisection Act and Metamorphosis Substitution.
This 14-page facsimile appeared in The New Phoenix (Issues 341–342, February 1956) and was reproduced with permission from the original copy owned by Ed Miller of Chicago. It preserves one of Houdini’s earliest publications, a work that is otherwise rarely encountered by collectors.
Thayer’s Catalogue Bulletin of Fine Magical Effects and Apparatus. Thayer Manufacturing Co., Los Angeles, ca. 1920s.
A scarce early catalog bulletin from the renowned Thayer Manufacturing Company of Los Angeles, offering a selection of fine magical effects and apparatus for professional and amateur performers. The illustrated catalog features Thayer’s stage and parlor apparatus, including the “Ultra” Four Ace Effect, P. & L. Vanishing Wand, Mystic Box and Lucky Die, Eli’s Die Box, and the company’s dramatic “Sawing a Woman in Half” illusion.
The cover features a photographic view of a magician’s stage outfitted with Thayer apparatus, while the rear cover highlights one of the company’s signature illusions. An excellent reference piece documenting the craftsmanship, innovation, and marketing of one of America’s most important magic manufacturers.
Softcover, illustrated throughout. Measures approximately 11.5 x 9 inches. Shows age-related toning, edge wear, and light handling consistent with its age. Good condition.
The Demon Telegraph. No. 122. London: L. Davenport & Co., August 1949.
Issue No. 122 of The Demon Telegraph, the house magazine of L. Davenport & Co. of London. The cover features a portrait of French magician Servais Le Roy, identified as “One of the World’s Greatest Magicians,” within the magazine’s distinctive red-and-black theatrical design.
28 pages, with magic-related articles, tricks, news, and advertisements for Davenport apparatus and novelties. Rear cover features an illustrated advertisement for the Ever Ready Cigarette Dropper along with a period listing of Davenport magical tricks and novelties.
Light toning and minor age-related wear; very good condition.
Wu-Ling “The Magical Mandarin” Signed Postcard. 1937.
Vintage photographic postcard depicting magician Wu-Ling in costume, captioned “WU-LING / THE MAGICAL MANDARIN” beneath the portrait. Signed and inscribed by Wu-Ling in blue ink, “To Gus / Xmas 1937,” with an additional signature across the lower portion of the photograph. Divided postcard back, unused. Shows age-consistent handling and surface wear, with light soiling and toning, particularly to the reverse. A scarce signed piece of early 20th-century magic ephemera with a dated presentation inscription.
Nothing Is Impossible. Trevor H. Hall. Croydon: ARCAS, 1946.
A study of the celebrated British magician David Devant by magic historian and bibliographer Trevor H. Hall. Hall examines the life and career of one of the most influential figures of the Golden Age of British magic and a central figure in the early history of The Magic Circle.
64 pages. Bound in orange cloth with black lettering to the front board. Shows age-related wear and soiling to the covers. Spine and front pages loose, but present. Good condition overall.
Magic and Spells Quarterly. Kirk LeRoy Stiles, publisher. Hollywood, Florida, 1970–1972.
A scarce near-complete run of Magic and Spells Quarterly, a periodical devoted to original magical methods, procedures, and ideas published by Kirk LeRoy Stiles. This offering includes three of the four issues published during the first volume of the journal: Summer 1970, 1971, and 1972 (missing issue No. 3).
Published in a small format for the serious magician, Magic and Spells Quarterly featured original contributions from noted performers and creators of the period, including articles on card magic, close-up effects, and original techniques. The journals include contributions by Norman Houghton, Edward Marlo, Allan Shaw, Gerald Kosky, and others.
Three issues, softcover, illustrated throughout. Overall very good condition with light age-related toning and handling wear.
Milt Larsen’s Magic Castle Tour. Carol Marie, 1997.
An illustrated tour of Hollywood’s famed Magic Castle, written by Carol Marie and centered on the history, rooms, personalities, and magical atmosphere of the private clubhouse founded by Milt Larsen and his brother Bill Larsen Jr. Features photographs and stories documenting the Castle and its place in the history of modern magic.
Paperback with decorative pictorial covers featuring the Magic Castle at night. A visual record of one of magic’s most celebrated landmarks. Very good condition.
Norm Nielsen Poster. Germany: The Magic Hands, 1993.
Photographic poster featuring Norm Nielsen performing card manipulations, issued as the November 1993 poster by The Magic Hands. Signed by Nielsen in gold ink at lower right. A striking period portrait of one of the foremost manipulation magicians of the twentieth century. Measures 11 x 17".
Very good, with light handling wear. Shipped flat in a rigid protective plastic sleeve.
The Colour Book of Magic and Simple Tricks. Clayton Rawson, 1970.
A beautifully illustrated introduction to magic by renowned magician, author, and illustrator Clayton Rawson. This charming volume presents a collection of simple magic tricks, demonstrations, and magical curiosities, accompanied by Rawson’s distinctive artwork and colorful illustrations throughout.
Published in 1970, this edition features 103 pages of entertaining magical instruction designed for aspiring young magicians. The book includes numerous full-color illustrations that bring Rawson’s inventive and playful approach to magic to life.
The interior bears the stamp of Davenport’s Magic Shop, London — one of the world’s oldest and most respected magic dealers, founded in 1898. The stamp identifies this copy as having passed through the historic British magic trade and adds an appealing piece of provenance for collectors.
Hardbound. 103 pages. Color illustrations throughout. Copyright 1970. Very good condition with light age-related wear.
Bev Bergeron Personal Ephemera Group.
Group of three items from the personal collection of magician, entertainer, and magic historian Bev Bergeron. Includes a “Magical Oddities” business card identifying Bergeron as president; a large “Vote for Bergeron / Dietrich / Klosterman” promotional pin from the IBM International Officers campaign; and Bergeron’s personalized American Safety Academy driving instructor name badge.
Three pieces of personal ephemera reflecting different aspects of Bergeron’s professional life and involvement in the magic community. Light age-related wear; very good condition overall.
Classic Illusions. ZeTuer, 2011.
A comprehensive collection of plans and drawings for building classic stage illusions. Featuring designs for more than 48 illusions, this 231-page volume provides construction information for creating a complete illusion show, including traditional stage apparatus and large-scale effects.
Spiral-bound with illustrated covers. A practical reference for illusion builders, collectors, and students of stage magic. Very good condition.
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.
More to Discover
Explore The Magic Shop
“My first purchase and I am 1000% satisfied with the prop, the description, the packing and the outstanding service. Highly recommended! ”
“I love finding cool items from Joel at The Magic Collector. He has a lot of great props; I’m always finding something I need in my collection. ”
“The Magic Collector describes collectibles fairly, packs well to prevent damage, and the $10 shipping charge is a gift. Highly recommended for honest dealing.”
Featured Items
From The Magic Shop
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.
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.
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.
ABC Blocks, Owen Magic Supreme.
A colorful block disappears from a stack only to reappear in a borrowed hat or other container. One of the less common designs from Owen Magic. Wear from age, very good condition overall.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Adelaide Herrmann Photographic Print. Mid-20th Century or Later.
Photographic print depicting Adelaide Herrmann (1853–1932), celebrated as the “Queen of Magic.” Following the death of her husband, Alexander Herrmann, Adelaide continued performing and became one of the most prominent magicians of her era, presenting full evening entertainments and helping to secure a place for women in the history of stage magic.
Shown in a dramatic profile portrait wearing an ornate jeweled headpiece. The image incorporates a facsimile inscription reading, “Yours truly, Adelaide Herrmann.”
Glossy black-and-white photographic print measuring approximately 8 × 10”. Evidence of prior mounting on the reverse, with remnants of adhesive and paper loss. Light wear consistent with age and handling. Good to very good condition overall.
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.
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”.
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.
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.
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…
Escaping Vampire by Ben Wallace, Wallace Magic Shop, Culver City, California, circa 1946. Featured in Wallace’s 1946 advertisement in Genii magazine, this surviving example represents one of the distinctive illusions produced by the Wallace Magic Shop and later imitated by other makers.
…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.
Featured Collection
Davenports
Multiplying Pocket Watches
Cigarette Production Box
Wrist Chopper
Block Release
Wonder Box
Nest of Boxes
Centenary Box
Vanishing Handkerchief
Davenport Cabinet
Penetra Spheres
Sesame Drawer Box. Owen Magic Supreme, Azusa, California, ca. 1970.
A large drawer is removed and shown empty, then returned to the cabinet. When withdrawn again, it is filled with a production of the performer’s choosing. The sides and rear of the cabinet open, allowing the interior to be displayed before the production.
Wooden construction finished in Owen’s characteristic red, black, and gold. Measures approximately 11 x 7.5 x 6.5". Shows wear consistent with age and use. Some hinges appear to have been replaced. Good condition.