676. Magic Machines: Disappearing Disc, String Cutter,

676. Magic Machines: Disappearing Disc, String Cutter, Magic Spirals (Dye Works). Kegworth, England: Bryans Automatic Machine Works, 1948. Including “Disappearing Disc,” in which an empty glass jar is covered by a metal sleeve, and then covers a metal disc. When the metal sleeve is raised the disc has disappeared. The sleeve is again lowered, and when lifted, the disc has reappeared. This is essentially a mechanical version of the classic “Weisenheimer” coin trick. The second machine, “String Cutter,” shows a length of string being pulled from side-to-side between two cylinders. A blade descends between the cylinders, apparently cutting the string. The cylinders separate to show that the string has been cut. The cylinders then rub together to ‘restore’ the strong, which is again pulled side-to-side again to show it is intact. The third machine, “Magic Spirals,” is the rarest. When operated, a metal spiral enters a cylinder. As it exits the other end of the cylinder, the spiral’s color has magically changed. This machine was made as a prototype, and although the manufacturer produced a few more examples for collectors, the overall production number is unknown, but estimated at five units. The machines operate by inserting a large English penny into the slot and cranking the front handle. All three in excellent working condition with locks and keys. Each 21 x 11 x 11”. An outstanding and uncommon complete set of these “magic” coin-operated machines.