Bamboozlers: Nine of Spades

Keep your checkbook balanced with this one.

The Stunt:

Balance a dime on a dollar bill’s edge while the bill is outstretched and flat. This could be presented as a betcha, but I prefer to do it as a stunt.

The Secret:

Begin with a crisp bill of any denomination. Fold the bill in half lengthwise. Crease the fold as flat as possible. Place the creased bill on the table, and then at the very center of the fold place the center of the dime head side down. (Fig. 1) Lift the bill in the air, slowly open the folded bill and the dime will remain balanced on the dollar’s edge if you are careful and have a steady hand. Without much practice you can open the bill almost completely flat without the dime falling (Fig. 2).

After performing the above stunt throw on your sunglasses and say, “When you are cool the sun shines on you 24 hours a day!” and then turn up your shirt collar and strut away.

For more commercial magic and puzzles from Diamond Jim Tyler visit his online Magic Shop!