The Effect
Show a piece of paper with a small hole in its centre. The hole appears too small for the larger coin to pass through.
Fold the paper, place the larger coin against the opening, and gently bend the paper. The coin passes through the hole while the paper remains intact.
What You’ll Need
📄 A square of paper
Use ordinary paper that is flexible enough to fold and bend without tearing.
🪙 Two coins
Choose two coins of noticeably different sizes. The larger coin is the one that will pass through.
Make the Small Hole
Place the smaller coin in the centre of the paper and trace around it.
Carefully cut out the circle. Keep the opening neat, and make sure it looks smaller than the larger coin.
Fold the Paper Around the Coin
Fold the paper in half so the hole sits near the fold.
Place the larger coin inside the folded paper, directly behind the hole, and keep the opening visible to your audience.
Bend the Paper
Bring the ends of the folded paper gently towards each other to create a curve or bend.
This changes the angle and shape of the opening, allowing the larger coin to pass through when it is aligned carefully.
Let the Coin Melt Through
Keep the paper curved and guide the coin edge-first through the opening. Move smoothly rather than forcing it.
Once the coin has passed through, straighten the paper and show that it is still in one piece.
🎭 Presentation Tip
Let the audience inspect the two coins and see the hole before you begin. Pause at the apparent impossibility, then bend the paper casually as you guide the coin through. The moment should feel like a discovery, not a struggle.
Why the Trick Works
The paper is flexible, so bending it changes the geometry and angle of the opening. The coin is guided through edge-first while the paper is curved; it is not passing straight through a rigid, flat hole.
Common Mistakes
Forcing the coin: If it catches, adjust the curve and angle rather than pushing hard.
Using paper that is too stiff: Flexible paper makes the bend easier to control.
Making the hole too irregular: Start with a clean circle and practise the handling before performing.
Rushing the reveal: Give the audience a clear view of the intact paper after the coin passes through.
Practice Plan
Practise making the hole, folding the paper, and finding the bend that lets the coin pass smoothly.
Rehearse from the audience’s viewpoint so the hole remains visible. Use spare paper while learning, and avoid forcing the coin if the paper begins to tear.