Conjuring Credits

The Origins of Wonder

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Smiling George Novelty Bill Fold

Also known as “Happy/Sad George”. By forming vertical mountain creases at either end of George Washington's mouth on a dollar bill, and a valley crease between them, if you tip the bill back and forth, George appears to be either smiling or frowning.

This novelty was first published in the West as “Washington's Moods” in Apocalypse, Jan. 1983, Vol. 6 No. 1, p. 730. Harry Lorayne, the editor, reported that the fold was widely known in Japan. Its originator is not known.

A predecessor is credited to John Murray in Martin Gardner's Encyclopedia of Impromptu Magic, 1978, p. 23, Item 23k. A horizontal mountain crease is made just below George Washington's eyes. By tilting the bill slowly, George's eyes appear to close, making him look sleepy.