This Retention Pass and Coin Vanish Magic Trick makes use of the following techniques:

The Finger Palm

Sleeving

If you are not yet familiar with these methods I suggest that you study and practice them carefully before you attempt this routine.

You can find them all here: The Magic Tricks Guide to Fundamental Coin Magic Techniques

So, if you are ready to try this, let's take a look at the routine. This is a 'classic' routine. Don't make the mistake of discounting these famous old routines because of their familiarity. Remember that most people still don't know how they are accomplished. These routines have become 'classics' precisely because they are good enough and enjoyable enough to have stood the test of time and exposure, yet remain as popular as ever.

Here's what the effect looks like from audience's side of things, step-by-step:

The magician shows a coin, clearly displayed between the thumb and fingers of one hand. The other hand is displayed empty.

The magician places the coin in the open palm of the empty hand.

The magician then turns the coin over in the palm, clearly displaying it as it flashes in the light.

The fingers then close around the coin, holding it within the fist and the hand that placed the coin there is removed.

The magician then slowly opens both hands to show that mysteriously...the coin has vanished!

It is a simple but highly effective illusion. The first part is called a 'retention pass' for two reasons. One is because the coin is not actually transferred from one hand to the other, but retained. The other, and more interesting reason, is because it makes use of a very powerful psychological effect called 'retention of vision'. When the magician 'flashes' the coin in the palm it leaves a strong impression on the retina of the observer, causing the brain to continue to 'see' the coin even after it has gone. The effect lasts for a split second but it is very convincing and gives the conjuror just enough time to conceal the coin undetected. So, now let's look at this from the magician's perspective and see how the illusion is accomplished:

After 'flashing' the coin in the palm, the magician curls the fingers around it - or so it seems. Infact the thumb slips the coin back and it is retained...

...and finger palmed as the hand withdraws. At this point all attention is drawn to the closed hand in which it is thought that the coin is concealed.

Whilst attention is now focussed on the slowly uncurling fingers of the other hand, the magician snaps the coin backwards and...

...and into the sleeve. Here we see the coin visibly in the sleeve but this is only for clarity of explanation. In practice you will send the coin whizzing all the way to the elbow.

Both hands can then be shown quite openly front and back because they are really empty. Clearly you need to have practiced the technique of sleeving to a high standard and be wearing appropriate clothing. Simple as it is, this trick can be high-impact if it is performed well.

Have you checked out these fantastic coins for magic tricks? Have a look at this: Magic Coins & Gimmicks

All the best with your magic!

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