It's rarely about the tools. When I worked at Midwest Magic in Chicago, we sold a variety of expanded shells across all price and quality ranges. The least expensive one was not even made from real currency—it was stamped aluminum. This spectrum exists for other props too, from cups and balls to linking rings to invisible thread. A good magician can use any of these tools and achieve great results.
Yet there are a few dedicated builders who precision-craft expanded shells from antique silver coins. The real value is not in the precious metal; it’s in the details. These high-end shells have less distortion, better coverage, and are more deceptive when viewed rim side up. In the hands of the right performer, these features can add a one-degree improvement to the magic.