Since I was already familiar and comfortable with some basic coin sleights (FP and TP) and had performed the Miser’s Dream, I figured that getting back into the rest of coin magic would be fairly easy. But I’ve since struggled with learning the CP and other new sleights, as well as working on false transfers, passes and vanishes, and getting my angles down better. I couldn’t figure out why until now.

I think the answer is that the Miser’s Dream, while it’s a great classic coin trick, is only a production effect. That is, there are no vanishes, false transfers and such to deal with. So now I’ve really had to go back and start at the beginning with Utility Switches, Click Passes, the CP and other basic moves. Additionally, the Miser's Dream is really a parlor or stage effect; working close-up with a table pad is an entirely different situation that requires new and different moves and strategies.

It promises to be a interesting journey, and I also wanted to say that I’m very appreciative of all the suggestions and advice from Café members so far! SETH

In Rubinstein Coin Magic there are two Miser's Dream routines. One uses the hand as a receptacle, and the other uses a cup. Both are suitable for close-up.