This is a shell that is not made by machining an actual coin. It is struck (pressed) out of this metal. Regardless of how it is made, it is a fine shell. It works well and the price is unbeatable. As with most expanded shells, you cannot let the audience examine it (you'll need a regular locking shell for that) but you can do a great number of tricks that will leave your audience in wonder. Great expanded shell, low cost: buy it!

I rarely write bad reviews on penguin. when i got this one i was really excited before it was shipped to me. but i was really disappointed. it doesnt even fit on a regular half dollar, then i dont know why its called expanded shell. and more over, it has a very cheap look on it which shows its a gimmick coin

I was disapointed with this prop. This one does not cover much of the side of the coin, and does not have an even surface on the inside. Another brand that I have seen looks much better. I wish penguin offered that line of gaffs.

Very nice shell for practicing if your a beginner or new to shell work, once you get you're technique down you can move up to a better quality shell...

This is a great trick coin. I have not had problems with it at all. I would reccommend buying this. It is pretty versatile and can be used in a number of different effects and situations. If you like flipper coins and other gaff coins then this is a great buy! You won't be dissapointed!!

Because of the finish of the coin it looks very different than a real half dollar. This makes it unusable for close up, and I would even worry about using it on stage.

I tried to polish it up with a Dremel and some Mothers Mag and Aluminum Polish. It made it look a lot better, but I ended up going to deep in a few spots and exposing the gold color underneath the silver. Someone with a steadier hand could make this coin look great.

For the price it is good for practice. I carry this shell around with a few coins to work on slights when I get some free time. If I lost it I would not be too upset.

As always, a top quality product from a top quality company!! Thank you! Eddie Tobey aka Tobini the Magician