T. Nelson Downs – King of Koins

T. Nelson Downs (1867-1938), the King of Koins, is pictured with his two books, the "Art of Magic" and "Tricks with Coins", which have become sleight of hand classics.

Downs created an act consisting entirely of coin manipulation. The conventional wisdom was that coins would be too small to be seen from a distance, but Downs' act not only defied conventional wisdom but went on to become one of the most popular and highly paid acts in vaudeville.

The 'Miser's Dream' routine he created, in which a seemingly endless number of coins were plucked into existence at this fingertips, has been emulated by performers ever since, and remains the standard classic of coin magic.

My effect, "Easy Come Easy Go", which is featured in my Intimate Illusions show is my version of this classic effect. It also comes with a twist as I like to present. I created this piece quite a long time ago and recently decided to introduce it into the show.

Beautifully set to Bach, I love performing it silently. My cellist simply plays this piece wonderfully.

See you at the show.