it is ok....just ok.....in the training video you will ask yourself several times "how did this get there?" you will rewatch it several times, just to realize it is never explained.....sure, you can watch, rewatch, rewind, rewatch, rinse, repeat, until you have hours invested in a trick that is just ok

I've been wanting to pick this up (DVD format by Troy Hooser) for years as this is the type of magic I love performing--it looks like magic! I'm a stickler for the finest props that I can afford, and props which also are perfect for the effect/method I'm purchasing.

Originally, props were not included with the (then) available DVD ($30.00), so one had to purchase the coins and ribbon themselves after the initial purchase of the DVD. This became a major setback to me as I tried to figure out from posts on magic blog sites exactly which coins were considered the "best" for this routine. Many contributed their choice of coins and where they could be purchased, but, because of the handling explained on the DVD, it was suggested that thinner coins were ideal for the "in the hands climax," and that Lance Pierces "Recharmed, I'm Sure" coins were the "Holy Grail". The problem was, no one ever had them in stock! Perhaps the $25.00 price tag for everything prompted the incessant run on all available supplies. . .continually.

Now, along comes Troy Hooser again with a complete package which includes the coins (dollar size), the ribbon, and online instructions, in wonderful packaging (for those who care)for $40.00. The instructions even include what I believe to be a different handling from the original, with other variations included as well. Nice! No need for "thinner" coins now, as other than an "in the hands" conclusion is offered which I like better as it's a surprise for everyone watching, instead of just the person holding the coins (think Salt and Silver).

The dollar sized coins are absolutely gorgeous, about 2mm thick, heavy, and very attractive. I like shiney props as I firmly believe they attract and hold attention far better than dull, tarnished looking props--I believe spectators prefer them too (unless you do Ren Faires, or an ancient artifacts type presentation)! I'm not sure they truly resemble chinese coins, but I doubt the average spectator would know the difference anyway. Troy's online instructions are easy to follow, and he offers some alternative ideas for you to ponder also.

In summary, this set is fantastic, affordable, complete, and offers much more than previous versions, as far as I know!!! Not saying I wouldn't investigate other coins and handlings in the future, but at this point I see absolutely no reason to search further. I don't believe you can go wrong here. I give this set my highest recommendation!

Props are great love the coins so much I bought 3 sets. That said the real issue with this production is the horrible explanation of the method. I don’t know if there was a time frame they were working with or Mr. Hooser was just “explained out” after teaching this for years.
You can read between the lines as it were but someone completely new may have a difficult time following.
I have been doing this routine since it was originally released through Kohler magic 10 or so years ago and the explanation by Mr. Hooser there is far superior to this iteration.
So, props good teaching meh.
Get the Kohler release for a great explanation and get this one for the fantastic coins!

Some of the reviews here led me to believe the teaching wouldn't be adequate but i thought it was perfect. The only disappointments are in the paintwork of the coins as it is slightly scratched on a couple of my coins. Also i'd have liked for the coins to be a little more weighty but that might just be because im so used to the weight of my morgans. Overall very good

Just picked this up and wow, the training video is terrible. IT should have been shot over the shoulder of the performer, making it much, much easier to see what's going on. The cuts and camera movement are terrible and make it difficult to see what's going and where things go. Other than that, it seems like a fun effect that happens close-up and in the spectator's hands.

While watching Troy Hooser explain his Charming Chinese Challenge I thought to myself this guy is a genius.Never have I seen such a meticulous explanation of any effect.This is one effect I will be performing forever and highly recommend it to all close up performance who like strong effects that are easy to perform.Buy it, buy it, buy it.

First review at Peinguin magic shop.

5 stars for the trick : It will definetively go in my usual routines. This trick is so elegant and can be adapted to your personality. Good job Mr. Troy

Only Bad point is the DVD-download : for this price I think we deserve better quality... The explanation are clear but some stuffs (particulary additionals technics) must be improved and explained clearer.

Like it !

You can’t go wrong buying this, it really is excellent...BUT, I find Troy’s handling just a tad awkward and suspicious. I purchased Lance Peirce’s version of this (recharmed I’m sure)with what I feel is better handling. That being said I think this new version of Troy’s is gorgeous and I may yet still pick it up just for the beautiful coins, although I do not know what the quality is like or how long the smooth and glossy finish on the coins will last