Hi all, I am considering getting a good set of halves PLUS expanded shell for coins across etc.

Any advice before I go ahead as to whether it's better to get a good expanded half and use any old halfs I can find OR get a set of 4 or 6 halfs plus a good shell that's machine fitted together with them.

Is six halfs and a shell better than 4 halfs and a shell?

I just want to get the right product that gives me the most possibilities.

Regards Alan

Alan,
Definitely contact Todd Lassen if you are looking to buy real silver coins and shells. Todd will give you uncirculated coins hand picked to fit perfectly with your expanded shell. This is important because coins do have minor variations in size that can cause a shell to be too loose or to stick on the coin.

If you have any doubts as to 6 or 4 coins - get 6. It is always good to get a few extra coins in case you lose one.

Click here for Todd's website: http://www.toddlassen.com

Thanks Dan, I am just fresh from seeing your Video Streams so am a bit out of breath, forgive me.

I have contacted Todd about his Half Dollar expanded sets.
As a matter of interest, would you ever carry just an expanded shell and borrow some coins and perform OR is that just not the done thing.

Regards Alan

I personally don't borrow coins to use with an expanded shell. I have a 1964 Kennedy Shell and a 1921 Morgan Dollar shell, and I highly doubt I could borrow either of those from someone.

If you wanted to borrow coins in the US, you would need something more ordinary like a quarter shell. I typically don't like to perform with quarters because of their smaller size.

I am not familiar with Norwegian money, it may be a better size.

When I borrow money for routines, I just don't use shells, that is when it is useful to know sleight of hand. Just last week I went on a day business trip to a trade show and forgot my coins. I made a point of getting 5 quarters. I also happened to visit a place where I picked up 5 brass washers slightly smaller than silver dollars.

I mainly did some flurry type routines with the washers, when people asked. (Many in my industry know I do magic and ask for it when they see me).

Dan