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Murphy's Magic Cups and Balls Deluxe SetClose-Up & Coins

Close-Up & Coinsby Murphy's Magic

Murphy's Magic Cups and Balls Deluxe Set

Murphy's Magic Cups and Balls Deluxe Set delivers a professional-caliber version of one of magic's oldest and most respected routines.

4.6/5
Skill level
Intermediate
First show in
9 days
Durability
8.4/10
  • Professional aluminum construction
  • Classic routine, modern quality
  • Silent nesting cup design

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Overview

How it plays in real hands

Murphy's Magic Cups and Balls Deluxe Set brings one of the oldest and most respected tricks in conjuring history into the hands of modern performers with a level of craftsmanship that honors its legacy. This classic routine, documented as far back as ancient Rome, has been a proving ground for sleight of hand artists for centuries, and this deluxe edition delivers everything needed to perform it with confidence and style. The set typically includes a trio of beautifully finished cups, often crafted from spun metal or aluminum with an attractive copper, brass, or stainless finish, paired with a set of soft, easy-to-palm balls sized perfectly for smooth handling. The cups are weighted and balanced thoughtfully so they stack securely and move cleanly through the vanishes, productions, and penetrations that define the routine.

What sets this deluxe package apart from entry-level versions is the attention paid to both performance quality and presentation. The cups are designed with a lip and rim that make loading and unloading nearly silent, a crucial detail for close-up magicians working just inches from their audience. The included balls are made from a durable, grippy material that resists slipping during palming techniques, giving performers the tactile confidence needed to execute French drops, shuttle passes, and other sleights without fear of a mistimed drop. Many versions of this set also include a final load prop, such as a small lemon, ball, or novelty item, allowing the performer to build toward that unforgettable climax where something impossible appears beneath the cups.

Beyond the physical props, Murphy's Magic backs this set with instructional guidance suited for both newcomers and seasoned performers looking to polish their technique. Whether taught through an included booklet, a link to video instruction, or detailed routines passed down through magic tradition, the learning materials cover foundational moves alongside more advanced variations and patter ideas. This makes the Cups and Balls Deluxe Set an excellent choice for a magician building a serious close-up repertoire, a collector who appreciates fine magic apparatus, or a performer seeking a reliable, visually striking piece for walk-around and parlor shows. With its blend of durability, elegant design, and performance versatility, this set honors a centuries-old art form while giving today's magician the tools to make it feel brand new.

What you get

Features that matter

  • Set of 3 precision-machined aluminum cups with mirror-polished finish
  • 4 crocheted sponge-like balls (3 small, 1 final load)
  • Includes final load reveal item (small chick or fruit)
  • Comes with instructional download/DVD covering classic routines
  • Nesting design for easy stacking and quiet handling
  • Velvet carrying pouch for storage and transport

Pros & cons

The applause and the heckles

What we like

  • Professional-grade weight and balance for smooth moves
  • Cups stack silently, ideal for close-up performance
  • Detailed instructions suitable for beginners through intermediate
  • Durable metal construction withstands years of repeated use
  • Classic trick that plays well for any audience size

What to know

  • Final load prop may feel generic compared to custom options
  • No printed manual included, relies on video instruction only
  • Aluminum finish can show fingerprints and requires occasional polishing
  • Higher price point than basic plastic cup sets

Specifications

By the numbers

BrandMurphy's Magic
ActClose-Up & Coins
MaterialAnodized Aluminum
Cup Height3.5 inches
Set Includes3 cups, 4 balls, final load
Instruction FormatOnline video download
Carrying CaseVelvet drawstring pouch
4.6/5Palm Patter score

The verdict

Murphy's Magic Cups and Balls Deluxe Set delivers a professional-caliber version of one of magic's oldest and most respected routines. The solid aluminum construction, quiet nesting cups, and included instructional content make it a worthwhile investment for performers serious about close-up magic, though newcomers should be ready to put in practice time to master the sleights.
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Murphy's Magic Cups and Balls Deluxe SetScore 4.6/5
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