Coin Types & Selection

Why Your Choice of Coin Matters

You try to hide a coin in your hand, but it keeps sliding out. You think your hands are too sweaty or too small, but the problem is actually the coin. Most coins in your pocket are too thin or too smooth to hold onto easily. Picking the right coin makes every move you learn feel 10 times easier.

Why This is Practical

Professional magic coins have "milling"—those tiny ridges on the edge. These ridges act like tread on a tire, helping your skin grip the metal so the coin stays exactly where you put it. Most magic props, like special wallets or gimmicked coins, are also made to fit specific sizes. If you start with the right standard now, you won't have to buy all new gear later when you want to expand your skills.

What You'll Learn

Jose breaks down the three main types of coins used by professionals. You'll learn why the US Half Dollar is the "gold standard" for magicians worldwide. It’s the perfect size for almost any hand, and it has the best grip for learning the fundamentals. You will see exactly how it should fit in your palm so you don't look clumsy.

You'll also look at larger Dollar-sized coins. These are great if you're performing for more than two or three people because they are much easier for an audience to see. Jose also covers Chinese coins, which have a hole in the middle. This hole lets you do tricks that aren't possible with regular money, like threading a coin onto a shoelace or a cord.

About Jose Arcario

Jose is a professional coin specialist who represented Spain at FISM, the world championships of magic. He spends his time performing close-up magic at corporate events and parties, where choosing the right coin is the difference between a successful trick and a dropped prop.

How to Choose Your Coins

• The Half Dollar: Why this is the best starting point for 90% of magicians.
• The Grip Test: How the ridges (milling) on the edge help you hold the coin.
• Visibility vs. Comfort: When to move up to a larger Dollar-sized coin.
• Chinese Coins: Using the center hole for unique routines and cord magic.
• Jumbo Coins: How to use oversized coins for a surprise ending.
• Gimmicks vs. Skill: Why you should learn with regular coins before buying expensive "trick" coins.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I just use the coins I already have in my pocket?
You can practice with them, but most local currency is too small or lacks the deep ridges needed for a solid grip. Learning is much faster when the coin isn't constantly slipping.

What if I have small hands?
Many people think their hands are too small for Half Dollars, but it's usually just a matter of placement. Jose shows you that the Half Dollar is actually designed to fit the average palm comfortably.

Do I need to buy expensive "magic" coins?
Not at all. You just need a few standard coins. Jose recommends starting with basic Half Dollars because they are affordable and work for almost every routine in this course.

Is it hard to switch between different sizes?
It takes a little bit of practice to adjust your "feel," but the basic moves stay the same. Jose explains how to decide which size fits your specific performance style.