I have gone through three sets of copper-silver-brass over the past 25 years or so. They wore out not because they were poorly made but rather because I always carry this with me in my pocket. I have finally started carrying them in a coin purse, and that will extend their life considerably.

The effect is magical. I start by allowing the spectator to examine each coin, explaining its unique qualities. By the time I get the last coin back I am ready to perform. I use patter about the United Nations, how some countries are on the lef like communist Chinat; others like the U.S. are on the right; and others like Mexico somewhat neutral.

I explain how the world has changed over times, with the coins going right or left in my hand. At one point in the routine, using your pockets for some coins, you can actually hand all coins out for examination again, and you can end absolutely clean, dumping all three coins out on the table or into the spectator's hand for examination.

A marvelous effect when someone says "Hey, you are a magician, do a trick for us."