New Parlor & Stage
The Perfect Net Bag. The Amazing Kreskin Collection. Guy Bavli, Israel, ca. 1990s.
An uncommon forcing bag constructed of white mesh with a chromed metal handle. The bag is shown empty before a collection of billets, bills, or chips is introduced, yet the performer can control the spectator’s selection. Approximately 14 inches long. Includes original instructions, accessories, and zippered carrying bag. From the collection of The Amazing Kreskin. Previously sold at Potter & Potter Auctions in August 2025. Very good condition.
Floating Flute. Tannen’s Magic, New York.
Lightweight imitation flute designed to rise from its case and float freely about the magician, moving up, down, and around the performer before returning to the case. Includes original black carrying case. Shows wear from age and use. Requires restringing. No instructions included.
Enchanted Teapot. Attributed to Bruce Martin, ca. 1990s.
Painted latex teapot from which water is poured into four glasses, changing to red, green, blue, and yellow. Four corresponding colored silks are then produced from the teapot, after which the pot may be crushed and vanished. Approximately 5 1/2" tall with lid. Includes four colored silks and original instructions. Very good. Attribution courtesy of George Robinson, Viking Magic.
New Folding Mirror Box. Trick Company, Japan. Created by Tsuyoshi Nojima.
A folding version of the classic Mirror Box, created by Tsuyoshi Nojima and manufactured by Trick Company of Japan. The black box is shown empty through large openings on its sides and top, after which silks, streamers, flowers, or other small articles may be produced from within. Includes the original illustrated instructions. Very good condition with light wear from use.
Cosmic Blaster. South Bound Brook, New Jersey: Theatre Effects Inc., ca. 1980s.
A futuristic stage prop designed to produce a dramatic burst of confetti from the barrel when fired. Constructed in a reflective silver finish with blue accents and a push-button trigger. Includes the original Theatre Effects instructions and a spare fuse. Shows wear from age and use, including surface marks and discoloration. Untested functionality.
Protean Mystery. Azusa: Owen Magic Supreme, ca. 2000.
Six-sided livestock production cabinet in which a dove transforms into a rabbit, small dog, parrot, or other suitable load. Lifting the lid releases the sides, which fall open to reveal the transformation. Finished in brightly colored lacquer with chrome hardware. A substantial piece measuring 21 × 18 × 14½”. Designed for tabletop use or attachment to a separate base, not included. As new.
Handkerchief Pedestal. Berlin: Conradi, 1920s.
Nickel-plated pedestal cleverly gimmicked to secretly introduce a silk handkerchief into a tumbler resting atop the stand. The concealed mechanism is manually operated by the performer. A large and substantial example of this classic piece of Conradi apparatus. Measures 13 ½” high. Wear to the fabric-covered surface on which the glass rests; otherwise very good condition.
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 to very good condition.
Jumbo Locking Card Box. Green River, Utah: Bill Adams’ A World of Magic, ca. 1990s.
Handcrafted hardwood locking panel box designed for the production, vanish, or exchange of jumbo playing cards and other objects. The secret panel may be locked into either side of the box, allowing for a variety of routines. Finely constructed with brass hinges and walnut finish. Measures approximately 8 x 5½ x 1¾".
Includes original printed instructions, dated 2001 by hand, with a handwritten note from Bill Adams to the original owner thanking him for his patience and wishing him a great year, together with a cloth storage bag. Near fine condition.
Hot Stuff. Chicago: L.L. Ireland, ca. 1950s.
A wooden candle from which the performer removes the flame to light a cigarette before returning it to the wick. The candle may also be inverted and lighted at both ends. Painted white and accompanied by its original red cardboard box and typewritten instructions. Box and instructions show considerable wear from age and use; candle with light wear. Very good overall. Uncommon.
Thornton Windlass (Card Rising Reel). New Britain: Thornton Laboratories, ca. 1920.
Metal utility reel devised for the Rising Cards and other magical effects. Constructed with a double-spring mechanism for use in producing movements and other effects at a distance. Measures 2 ¾” in diameter. Retains a substantial length of thread, though less than the 40 feet originally supplied. Shows wear from age and use; good working condition.
Magical Comedy Sample Pack. Bumper, ca. 1980s.
Collection of ten comedy paper hat tears, each transforming a sheet of tissue into a different novelty hat or costume piece. The assortment includes bonnet, clown, pant, boxer shorts, mouse, wizard, rabbit, Santa, and woodsman designs. Complete in the original illustrated box with original instructions. Contents as new; box shows wear from age and storage. New old stock.
Cut and Restored Ribbon. Haenchen, ca. 1976.
Finely made apparatus for Richard Resor’s cut-and-restored ribbon effect, manufactured by Carl Haenchen with the assistance of Resor. A ribbon is threaded through the decorated stand and its ends initialed by a spectator. The center portion is cut away and vanished, after which the performer visibly restores the ribbon with a pull of the two remaining ends.
Includes the stand, ribbon, necessary accessories, and original instructions. From the Viking Magic Vault, where a limited number of original Haenchen-made examples were later offered. Mint 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.
Dovette Pan. Owen Magic Supreme, Azusa, California, ca. 2000.
Compact version of Owen’s classic production pan. The pan is shown empty and covered with the domed lid; when the lid is removed, a quantity of small articles has appeared inside. Polished metal construction with black knob and Owen hallmark on bottom. Measures approximately 4 x 5½". Very good condition, free of scratches or dents.
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.
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. 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.
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.
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.
Coin Wand. Maker Unknown, ca. 1900–10.
Lever-operated coin wand with clamshell mechanism and gimmicked 1899 Barber half dollar. Measures approximately 14" with the coin extended. Original black finish. Mechanism functions as intended. Good condition. Currently offered on consignment.
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.
Abdul’s Fez Egg Bag. Nielsen Magic. Los Angeles, California. ca. 1970s–80s.
A clever variation on the classic Egg Bag, Abdul’s Fez transforms a traditional red felt fez into a deceptive production prop. The interior may be shown freely, the hat can even be worn by a spectator, yet a standard prop egg can repeatedly appear, vanish, and reappear using the familiar principles of the Egg Bag. The unusual fez presentation offers a fresh approach while supporting many classic Egg Bag routines.
Constructed of high-quality red felt and finished with a gold tassel, this example was produced by Nielsen Magic during the period when Norm Nielsen operated from Los Angeles. Wooden egg is not included, though any standard prop egg may be used.
Date-A-Girl. Supreme Magic, Bideford, Devon.
A vintage parlor effect produced by Supreme Magic in which a participant freely selects one of seven illustrated cards, each depicting a different woman identified by name and color-coded attire. The routine culminates in the performer correctly identifying the spectator’s chosen “date.”
Includes the complete set of seven illustrated cards (Jane, June, Margaret, Kathleen, Sheila, Eveline, and Dorothy), seven original envelopes, and the original typed instruction sheet. The instructions describe the routine as a revised presentation of Bruce Elliott’s earlier Bluebeards effect.
Measures approximately 8.75 × 6 inches. Cards, envelopes, and instructions exhibit light age toning and handling wear consistent with use. Very good condition overall.
New Close-Up
Flat Money Slide. Maker unknown, early 20th century.
Black-painted brass coin slide designed to secretly deliver half dollars, one at a time, into the magician’s hand. Holds six coins and features a spring-operated release mechanism. Described in Professor Hoffmann’s Modern Magic and offered by A. Roterberg as No. 306. Includes six half dollars. Mechanism operates smoothly. Minor surface wear; otherwise excellent condition.
Imp Bottle. E-Z Magic (D. Robbins & Co.), ca. 1980s.
Small red and white bottle that remains lying on its side for the magician but returns upright when a spectator attempts the same. Includes original bottle, gimmick, and illustrated box. No instructions. Box shows wear from age and storage; bottle very good.
Zenith Magic Set. Zenith Toy, Brooklyn, New York, 1950s.
Vintage children’s magic set manufactured by Zenith Toy of Brooklyn, New York. No. 916-A contains an assortment of classic tricks using coins, rings, rope, cards, and other props, arranged on the original illustrated insert. Retains the original instruction booklet and complete contents.
Original pictorial box with colorful rabbit magician artwork. Measures 17 3/4 x 11 1/2 x 2". Contents very good. Box shows wear, creasing, edge wear, and tears from age and use.
Petrie & Lewis Brass Cups. P & L, New Haven, Connecticut, ca. 1940s.
Set of three spun brass cups, each approximately 3 3/4 × 2 3/4 inches. Brass examples are less commonly encountered than their copper and aluminum counterparts. Unmarked, with attribution supported by David Haversat, owner of Petrie & Lewis, who notes that not all P&L pieces were hallmarked. Shows scratching, tarnish, and wear from age and use; otherwise very good.
Pimmel Snitter (Cigarette Cutter). Holland: Eddy Taytelbaum, 1960s.
A small stainless steel blade visibly penetrates a cigarette held within the decorated plastic frame, leaving the cigarette unharmed. Finished in black with silver and gold detailing. Measures 3 ½ × 1 ¼". Light wear, else very good.
The Mystic Pillars. E-Z Magic, ca. 1950s.
A length of string is threaded through a pair of brightly colored plastic pillars and cut in two. Despite being visibly severed, the string is restored. Includes the original illustrated E-Z Magic box, two plastic pillars, and string. Box shows light age and handling wear; apparatus remains in very good condition. No instructions included.
Dehydrated Milk Pitcher. Star Magic, ca. 1950s.
A miniature clear measuring pitcher is shown filled with milk. The contents are poured into a small glass, where the quantity has mysteriously diminished to only a fraction of its original volume. Also adaptable to color changes and other liquid effects. Measures approximately 3” tall. Retains its original illustrated box and instructions. Light wear consistent with age; very good overall.
Vanisher. Enardoe Products, ca. 1950s.
A vanishing device for handkerchiefs, paper money, and other small objects. Black painted mental apparatus with attached cord, accompanied by its original pictorial box and original instructions. Box shows light wear; instructions are heavily worn, toned, and separated. Apparatus in very good condition.
Slow Motion Card Vanish. Owen Magic Supreme, ca. 2000.
A freely selected, unprepared playing card slowly vanishes from between the performer’s hands and may then be made to reappear. Brass gimmick clips to the performer’s thumb and attaches to the card, allowing the effect to be accomplished without rapid movements or flourishes. Includes original Owen Magic Supreme instructions, No. 1917. Very good condition.
Dollar Bill in Lemon. E-Z Magic, 1951.
A borrowed and marked dollar bill vanishes from a handkerchief and is subsequently discovered inside a lemon or orange. Envelope shows wear from age; contents very good.
Adams’ Penny Balancer. S.S. Adams Co., ca. 1950s.
A pocket-size novelty in which two pennies are improbably balanced one atop the other at the performer’s fingertip. Includes the balancing apparatus, two pennies, and original gold-colored box with pictorial paper label. Box shows wear consistent with age; contents in very good condition. Instructions not included.
Identa-Miracle. Owen Magic Supreme, ca. 2000s.
A freely selected card is signed by the magician and spectator, torn into eight pieces, with one corner retained by the spectator. The remaining pieces are wrapped in a handkerchief and restored to a single card, with the retained corner matching perfectly. Includes the original illustrated envelope and Owen Magic Supreme instructions. Light wear, else very good.
Tantalus Vase. Peter Pan Product, England, ca. 1950s.
A classic inexhaustible-vase effect in which water is repeatedly poured from the vessel, yet it mysteriously refills and may be poured again. Molded in glossy red plastic with an internal reservoir and concealed control in the neck. Includes the colorful original pictorial box and original instructions. Very good condition overall; box shows expected wear from age.
Black & White Transpo. Middlesex: Alan Warner, ca. 1970s [?].
Early painted example of Warner’s miniature transposition effect. A white chip is placed inside the small lacquered box while a black chip is placed in the performer’s pocket. When the box is reopened, the black chip has mysteriously taken the place of the white, which is discovered in the performer’s pocket.
Finished in black and red lacquer and accompanied by the original typewritten instructions. An early example from Warner’s painted Mini-Magic period, predating the later examples more commonly encountered. Shows wear from age and use, including rubbing and losses to the finish; good condition overall.
Phanto-Tube. Sherms, ca. 1950s.
A polished metal tube is shown empty and its ends sealed with tissue paper and metal rings. The paper is then broken and silks or flags are produced from within. Retains its colorful original pictorial box and illustrated instructions. Measures 5” high. Box exhibits wear consistent with age; apparatus remains bright and in very good condition.
Rod, Ball and Ring Mystery. Ca. 1940s.
A borrowed finger ring vanishes and magically reappears linked to a wooden rod. Finished in black and tan lacquer. Measures approximately 11” long; balls approximately 1 ½” in diameter. Very good condition. No instructions.
Rattle Box. Azusa: Owen Magic Supreme, ca. 1980s.
Finely made hardwood box for the vanish of a borrowed coin, ring, or other small object. The article is placed inside and can still be heard rattling within the closed box, yet when opened it has mysteriously vanished and may be reproduced elsewhere. Owen catalog no. 1306. New old stock, retaining its original numbered Owen paper wrapper. Hallmarked. As new.
Hello Cigarette. Maker unknown, ca. 1940s–50s.
Commercially produced version of the classic cigarette-from-matchbox effect. The performer pantomimes rolling an imaginary cigarette, then removes a matchbox and strikes a match. As the imaginary cigarette is brought to the lips, a genuine cigarette unexpectedly appears and is lit.
Includes the original illustrated box, prepared Sexton safety matchbox, gimmick, and illustrated instructions. Box and instructions show age and handling wear; overall very good condition.
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.
Dis-Kor-Bal. New Haven: Petrie & Lewis, ca. mid-20th century.
Colorful wooden penetration effect in which four discs are threaded onto a length of rope above a ball. The ends of the rope are passed through holes in a handkerchief and held by spectators, yet beneath its cover the discs mysteriously penetrate the rope and are removed, leaving the ball securely in place. Finished in red, green, yellow, blue, and black lacquer. Includes rope, handkerchief, and photocopied instructions. Very good condition. Uncommon.
Memory Test Card Trick. American, ca. 1940s.
Pocket card effect in which a Deuce and two Threes of Hearts are displayed and placed on the table. When the cards are gathered, one of the Threes apparently changes into the Ace of Hearts. Accomplished with three specially printed cards.
Includes the three cards and original illustrated instruction envelope. Also accompanied by a period “Air Raid Warden” novelty card found inside the envelope, though not believed to have been originally issued with the trick. Light toning and wear from age; very good condition overall.
Split Deck. Merv Taylor/Owen Magic Supreme, ca. 2000.
Classic card effect devised by Bob Haskell. Two spectators each select a half-card; when the corresponding halves are brought together, they form a complete matching card. Produced using Fox Lake playing cards. Includes the specially prepared deck and original printed instructions. New old stock.
Sho-Gun Wallet. London: Jerry O’Connell London/PropDog, contemporary.
Fine leather switching wallet based on the original design of Elbert L. Gardner and produced by Jerry O’Connell London and PropDog under authorization from Gardner. The cleverly constructed wallet permits a variety of changes, switches, productions, and predictions while retaining the appearance of an ordinary billfold.
Handcrafted in black leather and embossed with the Jerry O’Connell London mark. Includes original presentation box and QR-code instructions. As new.
Non-Geometrical Disks. Chicago: B. L. Gilbert Co., ca. 1940s.
Optical illusion consisting of three circular disks which, when arranged according to the supplied directions, create the appearance that the distances between them are unequal despite measuring the same. Includes three pale green disks, printed instruction card, and original titled envelope. Envelope and instructions toned with light age-related wear; disks very good. An unusual Gilbert pocket novelty, complete with its original packaging.
Penetration Frame. Chicago: Royal Magic/Fun, Inc., ca. 1970s.
Classic close-up penetration effect. Playing or business cards are placed on either side of the frame, completely covering its solid transparent center. A borrowed pencil is then pushed directly through the cards and center; when the cards are removed, they are pierced while the plastic remains unharmed. The frame may be examined before and after the effect. Includes the original illustrated box and instructions. Box shows wear from age and storage; apparatus in very good condition.
Simplex Slat Card Frame. Joe Berg, Viking-Haenchen Magic Co., ca. 2000.
Hardwood card vanish in which a selected playing card is placed within a wooden frame, visibly imprisoned behind three horizontal slats. With a pass of the performer’s hand, the card instantly vanishes, after which the frame may be shown from both sides. Finely constructed in hardwood. Includes original illustrated instructions. Measures approximately 4 × 2.75 inches. As new.
Leather Impact. Howard Schwarzman’s Limited Editions, ca. 1980s.
Original Howard Schwarzman production of Roy Walton’s Impact, adapted for leather wallets from an idea by Frank Garcia. Four wallets are shown, each containing a face-down Ace visible through a circular opening. After a spectator selects a suit, the wallets repeatedly and inexplicably reverse orientation, culminating with the selected Ace visibly turning face up inside its wallet.
One of the most popular releases in Schwarzman’s Limited Editions line and later reproduced in a newer edition. This is an original Howard Schwarzman issue, comprising four leather wallets, the necessary cards, and original instructions. As new.
Anti-Gravity Trio. Royal Magic, ca. 1970s.
Three classic anti-gravity effects packaged as a single set. The performer can invert a bottle of liquid without spilling its contents, turn a full glass upside down while the liquid remains suspended, and cause inverted glasses to cling to a book or similar object. Includes the necessary gimmicks, original instructions, and original illustrated Royal Magic box. Box shows light wear from age and handling; contents in very good condition.
Ghostly Cigarette Rise. Leo Kostka, ca. 1970s.
A borrowed cigarette is placed upright on the performer’s hand, where it mysteriously rises and lowers at will before being returned for examination. The effect is accomplished without visible threads, pins, or wires.
Includes the original illustrated envelope, instructions, and separate sheet of bonus routines. The gimmick is not included; suitable replacements are readily available. Paper components show age-related toning, creasing, and edge wear. Very good condition overall.
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.
New Books & Ephemera
Senator Crandall Signed Photograph. Ca. 1960s.
Vintage black-and-white photograph of Senator Crandall performing at a close-up table, with a nameplate reading “Senator Crandall — Now at Work.” Signed in green ink, though the signature is worn and no longer legible. Approximately 8 × 10". Minor wear and creasing. Very good.
The Tarbell Course in Magic. Chicago: Tarbell System, Incorporated, 1927.
Complete file of Harlan Tarbell’s celebrated mail-order course in magic, comprising Lessons 1–60 and the index, extensively illustrated throughout. The individual lessons are gathered between the original cloth covers and secured with the cord binding. A scarce complete example of the original correspondence course that would later form the basis of the Tarbell Course in Magic books. Covers show expected wear and pages are toned from age; very good condition. Scarce.
Successful Magic for Amateurs. New York: Arco Publishing Company, n.d. By Norman Hunter; edited by F. J. Camm.
A substantial handbook of practical magic for the amateur magician, covering a broad range of tricks, techniques, and presentations. 383 pages. Printed in Great Britain. Bound in red cloth with titles to spine. Light wear to spine ends and extremities; contents clean and binding tight. No dust jacket. Very good.
Virgil Signed Portrait, 1948.
Portrait of Virgil (Virgil Mulkey), inscribed and signed to fellow magician Billy Russell of Batavia, New York, with good wishes, and dated September 27, 1948. Approximately 8 × 10". Light toning and wear, else very good.
Thayer Quality Magic Catalogue No. 6. Los Angeles: Thayer Manufacturing Company, 1925.
Substantial 240-page catalogue illustrating and describing Thayer’s extensive line of magic apparatus, stage illusions, card effects, and conjuring accessories. Bound in pictorial wrappers featuring the firm’s distinctive Egyptian-themed artwork and trademark. Covers show light wear and soiling, with small edge tears and a penciled price notation to the front. A desirable trade catalogue from one of America’s foremost manufacturers of fine magic apparatus.
Richie Magic Signed Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Feature. 2010.
Printed Ripley’s Believe It or Not! feature depicting magician Richie Magic of Scarsdale, New York, commemorating his feat of extinguishing 200 lit cigarettes in his mouth in 6 minutes, 37 seconds on August 29, 2009. Signed and dated by Richie Magic in silver ink, “Richie Magic 2010,” above his portrait. Magic was a professional magician and later served as president of the Society of American Magicians’ historic Parent Assembly No. 1 in New York. An unusual piece of signed magic ephemera documenting one of his best-known performance feats. 8 ½ x 11”. Very good condition.
100 Houdini Tricks You Can Do. New York: Arco Publishing, 1954. By Joseph Dunninger.
A collection of 100 magic tricks and feats presented by the celebrated magician and mentalist, drawing on the enduring popularity of Houdini’s name. Illustrated throughout with explanations covering a range of practical magic. 144 pages. Bound in tan cloth with green pictorial device to front board and titles to spine. Shows light wear and age toning; very good.
The Cold Deck. Ray Goulet. Watertown, Massachusetts: The Magic Art Book Co., 1976. First edition.
An 18-page treatise presenting the card work of Frank Thompson, written by Ray Goulet and published following Thompson’s death. Covers the use of the cold deck, with illustrations by Guy VanDuser and a fold-out sheet of illustrations. Pictorial yellow wrappers, the cover design inspired by a poster for the William S. Hart film Cold Deck. Minor wear, else very good.
Tom Mullica Photograph. ca. 1980s.
Original black-and-white publicity photograph of magician and comedy performer Tom Mullica performing his celebrated cigarette-eating routine, holding an oversized lighter with several cigarettes in his mouth. 8 × 10". Glossy finish. Minor wear, else very good.
Card Magic of Le Paul. New York: Louis Tannen, ca. 1959. Third edition.
One of the classic texts of card magic by Paul Le Paul, detailing his influential techniques and routines with playing cards. Illustrated throughout, 219 pages. Bound in blue cloth with gilt titles to the front board and spine. No dust jacket. Very good condition.
[SMITH, Leslie C.] The Auction of Master Craftsman and Collector Leslie C. Smith. 2009.
Illustrated catalogue produced for the June 28, 2009 auction of the personal collection of Leslie C. Smith, longtime owner and master craftsman of Owen Magic Supreme. Held at Owen Magic Supreme in Azusa, California, the sale documented Smith’s extensive collection of magic apparatus, books, posters, and related material assembled over a lifetime in magic.
Limited edition of 500 numbered copies, this being no. 118, signed by Gertrude Smith and Alan Zagorsky. 77 pages, extensively illustrated in color. Apparatus text by Zagorsky; book text by Byron Walker. An important record of the Smith collection and a desirable piece of Owen Magic Supreme history. Very good condition.
25 Rice Bowl Methods. Winston H. Freer, ca. 1950s.
Original mimeographed booklet by magician and inventor Winston H. Freer devoted to twenty-five methods and variations for the classic Rice Bowls. Includes Freer’s “Maxam” Glass Bean Bowls Routine on page 10, reflecting his inventive approach to the possibilities of a familiar effect.
Freer, who also performed under the name Doc Maxam, was an inventive and influential figure in twentieth-century American magic, known for developing unusual effects, methods, and apparatus.
Mimeographed sheets in stapled wrappers, with the original $2.00 price printed on the cover. Wrappers toned with age, with minor spotting and wear as shown. An uncommon Freer publication.
Adelaide Herrmann Theatre Program. Boston: B.F. Keith’s Theatre, 1919.
Original vaudeville program featuring Adelaide Herrmann, billed as the “Widow of the famous ‘Herrmann the Great,’” presenting “A New Series of Mystery Problems.” Herrmann appears as part of a multi-act vaudeville bill. Pictorial wrappers depicting the B.F. Keith Theatre. 8vo.
Pages browned with age, with scattered edge wear and minor chipping; wrappers show light soiling and handling wear. Very good overall for a period theatrical program.
Magic. Barrows Mussey. New York: A. S. Barnes & Co., 1942.
Illustrated introduction to the art of magic, covering tricks and techniques with cards, coins, handkerchiefs, ropes, rings, mental effects, and other classic conjuring material. Illustrated with photographs by Margaret Hawthorn. Red cloth boards decorated in black, with original pictorial dust jacket. 83 pages. Dust jacket shows considerable edge wear, chipping, and creasing; cloth with scattered wear, particularly along the spine. A good copy in the original dust jacket.
Magic, Inc. Ephemera Collection. Chicago, ca. 1960s–90s.
Collection of 28 pieces of ephemera issued or distributed by Magic, Inc., including trick and routine manuscripts, instructional booklets, catalogs, advertisements, and related printed material. Subjects encompass close-up, card, stage, and general magic. Various formats and sizes. Condition varies, with expected toning and handling wear from age and use. A substantial group of printed material from the longstanding Chicago magic dealer and publisher.
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.
Miniature Wands. Maker unknown, ca. mid-twentieth century.
Group of 19 miniature magician’s wands, each finished in black with white tips. Housed in the original cardboard box with printed label advertising “50 for $1.00.” Box measures approximately 2¾ x 2". Shows light age-related wear and toning. Very good condition overall. Currently offered on consignment.
The Master Mystery. Arthur B. Reeve and John W. Grey. New York: Grosset & Dunlap, 1919. First edition.
Novelization of the fifteen-part silent film serial starring Harry Houdini as Department of Justice agent Quentin Locke. Illustrated with eight photographic plates from the Houdini Super-Serial, including the frontispiece. The story pits Locke against a criminal organization and its mechanical enforcer, the Automaton, an early screen depiction of a robot.
Original red cloth with black lettering to the front board and spine. 304 pages, followed by publisher’s advertisements. Spine sunned, with wear and soiling to the binding; toning and scattered foxing internally, with several gutters overopened or starting. Good condition overall.
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.
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. Currently offered on consignment.
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. Currently offered on consignment.
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. Currently offered on consignment.
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.
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.
Ingenious Magic Illusion and Apparatus Patents: Expanded Edition. Matt Ruetz, 2022.
A comprehensive reference exploring patented magic apparatus, illusions, and related inventions drawn from the records of the United States Patent Office.
This expanded edition presents a fascinating collection of patent information covering magicians’ tricks, theatrical effects, magic-related games, toys, amusements, and mechanical innovations. Featuring illustrations and descriptions of hundreds of patented inventions, the volume provides a unique look at the creativity, engineering, and ingenuity behind magical apparatus throughout history.
Spiral-bound, 343 pages. A valuable reference for collectors, historians, builders, and anyone interested in the development of magical apparatus and illusion design. Very good condition. Currently offered on consignment.
The First Book of Magic. Edward Stoddard, 1953.
An introductory guide to conjuring by Edward Stoddard, presenting a selection of magic intended for the beginning performer. Covers fundamental principles and effects using cards, coins, handkerchiefs, and other readily available objects, with explanations designed to introduce the reader to the practice and presentation of magic.
Hardbound in red cloth with black lettering and a top hat and wand design to the front board. Light age-related wear to the covers; very good condition overall. Currently offered on consignment.
Talking Tie (“Tyler”). Kevin Detweiler/Lovik World, ca. 1980s–90s.
Novelty ventriloquial necktie incorporating a concealed spring mechanism that opens and closes a mouth formed in the front of the tie, operated by a control from the reverse.
Originally created by Kevin Detweiler and later produced under license by Lovik World, the Talking Tie became one of Detweiler’s most popular novelty puppets, with hundreds reportedly sold through magic dealers. Designed for use by ventriloquists as well as magicians and novelty performers. Burgundy fabric with brass fittings forming the eyes. The effect was sufficiently popular that a separate booklet of routines, Tie-Alogues, was produced for it. Very good.
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. Currently offered on consignment.
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Escaping Vampire. Ben Wallace, Wallace Magic Shop, Culver City, California, ca. 1946.
Decorated wooden coffin with a removable vampire block and wooden stake. The block is placed inside the coffin, and the stake is passed through openings in its sides and the center of the block. Despite being impaled, the vampire escapes, leaving the coffin and stake intact. Finished in red crackle paint with gold accents. Advertised by Wallace in Genii magazine in 1946, with a notice cautioning buyers against imitations. Retains the original Wallace Magic Shop label. Includes a period printed advertisement. Minor wear consistent with age and use; otherwise very good condition.