This coin-like prop is from the latest line in "hip" magic props, Mechanic Industries. This particular coin is a hair bigger than an Eisenhower dollar coin. They're a bit heavier too. They have nice "grippy" edges for palming. However, their weight makes them a little harder to hold on to (at least for me), but keep in mind, I'm not that good at the Classic Palm to start with, so it could just be me.

I kind of like the idea of what Mechanic Industries is trying to do. They're somewhat rebranding what close up magic props look like. I like the name "mechanic" because it'll spark discussions and presentational patter ideas. These days, English Pennies, Kennedy Half Dollars, Walking Liberties, Eisenhowers, Morgans, etc. are all just as obscure as these mechanic coins. The only disadvantage that these may have is that they're clearly not currency. Whereas the aforementioned obscure currency coins actually look like money. Even someone who has never seen them, can recognize them as coins. The mechanic coins won't pass as coins, but they may pass as poker chips.

I presume that you could come up with some presentational angle about the "secret mechanics club" where members are given this coin, etc. That's likely the approach I would take. The ad copy claims that they're quieter than regular coins. They are a bit quieter and smoother/softer than regular coins.

In general, I'm not much of a coin worker. I've only recently (after many, many, many years) made some progress with my coin roll. I think it's slightly better with these coins just due to their weight. Overall, it's a very well made coin that has potential for presentational enhancements. If you're looking to add a little something to your close up coin work, this might be what you're looking for. Further, there are some pretty cool effects that can be done when you combine the Mechanic coins with the Mechanic cards.

My only question is regarding the price. When you consider that magic retailers sell Eisenhowers for $10 bucks and Morgans for a lot more than that, $8.95 seems a reasonable price for a prop that you'll use every day. Further, I've made some progress on a point mentioned above. Last night I was writing this review and I was about to go online and do some research on coin prices, but I lost my internet connection. So instead, I decided to put in some more practice time with my coin roll. I made more progress with these coins in a couple of hours than I've ever made with any other coin. I found the Eisenhowers tend to slide and fall off of my hand more. Whereas the Mechanics seemed to "stick" to my hand more.

Final Verdict:
5 Stars with a Stone Status of GEM