Saltshaker Penetration

The Saltshaker Penetration is a classic magic trick in which a saltshaker appears to penetrate through a table. The trick involves the use of misdirection extensively.

Method

The magician sits at a table and covers a saltshaker with a paper towel. He / she then puts the covered saltshaker on a coin, claiming that he / she will make the coin disappear. After tapping the saltshaker with a magic wand or something comparable, the magician lifts the saltshaker, revealing that the coin is still there. As everyone focuses on the coin, the magician discreetly lets the saltshaker slip into his / her lap (with the paper towel still retaining its shape). The magician may try again, repeatedly, to "vanish the coin." On the last try, however, the magician smashes his / her hand down on the "saltshaker," and simultaneously spreads their legs to allow the real saltshaker to fall to the floor. The audience may then inspect the saltshaker and the napkin, finding nothing.