I am fully expecting a big no! but I wonder if anyone has any idea where I could get an expanded shell for a ........Japanese 500yen.

I have checked many websites, and tried some Japanese websites too, but maybe my terminology in Japanese is a bit off because no hits so far.

I fired off a mail to my local friendly magic shop owner, but he is a very casual guy so I don't expect an reply for a day or 5!

It may be a bit of a wait, what with all the shipping, processing and manufacturing, wait time and everything else included, but you can send a couple of the coins to gaffers to have a shell made. You can get more info here: http://www.roykueppers.com

Roy stocks many international coins and may have what you are looking for, or would be able to make what you need. The best way to find out is to call and ask.

I hope this information is useful to you.

Lassen makes these, but he mentioned before that his Japanese customers can get in hot water for accepting them at their post office. They are illegal in Japan. I would imagine if you are in U.S. you could get them easily from him.

Thanks for your help.

Actually I had assumed that shells wouldn't be illegal, because I saw a tenyo, or possibly tenyo-esque 10 yen to 100 yen using a shell and a pen with a m***** (10 yen is slightly bigger than 100), about 5 years ago. The shell was OK but only a cheapy one so not too brilliant.
Perhaps that is why it was allowable.

Cheers

I just found this.

http://www.geniimagazine.com/forums/ubbt......er=89536

hmm, maybe I will use British money instead.