The Sherms Genii Tube

Large Version

The Sherms Genii Tube traces back to Sherms, Inc.. Sherms was founded by Russian-born magician Robert “Bob” Sherman (1892–1969). The company operated from Bridgeport, Connecticut, beginning by the 1920s and continuing into the 1960s. Sherms manufactured professional magic apparatus, pocket tricks, puzzles, magic sets, and novelty items under names such as “Sherm’s Creation” and “Master Magic.”

Although Sherms produced inexpensive magic sets and puzzles, it also manufactured substantial professional apparatus. Known examples include Card Stars, Dove Pans, Coin Pails, Silk Daggers, Spirit Cabinets, production cabinets, head choppers, and other plated-metal stage equipment.

The Sherms Genii Tube Effect

The performer opens the hinged tube and displays the interior. The tube is then closed and secured. Despite having apparently been shown empty, the magician produces a considerable quantity of silks, streamers, flags, or similar compressible items.

Auction Reference: The Sherms Genii Tube documented example appeared in the 2013 Potter & Potter auction of the William E. King collection: (link opens to a PDF catalog of the auction, page 29 is where the Sherms Genii Tube is located)

The auction described it as:

• Heavy brass construction
• Chrome-plated exterior
• Approximately 12 inches tall and 3 inches in diameter
• Hinged so the tube splits open and can be displayed empty
• Designed to produce silk handkerchiefs
• Capable of concluding with a liquid production
• Auction estimate in 2013: $150–$250

Acquisition Details – Large Sherms Genii Tube

Sherms large version Genii Tube, 14’s tall and 4″ in diameter. Vintage item, shows imperfections for age and use. Clasp shows some light rust, interior of tube has a blemish that appears to be embedded into the chrome. Sorry about the picture and any reflections present, chrome items are difficult to photograph. 

Full transparency, considering in 2013 (13 years ago) this was expected to sell on the high side of $250 this item should sell for $400-$500 justified by the extreme quality of the apparatus and overall scarcity. Due to its age and performance wear I’m offering a lower price for your consideration. 

Apparatus Details:

• Approximately 14 inches tall
• Approximately 4 inches in diameter
• About 4 pounds
• Nickel-plated rather than described simply as chrome
• Constructed with heavy hinges
• No instructions

Condition Disclosure for Rare & Vintage Collectible Magic Apparatus

PHOTOS

Please review all listing photos carefully, as they are an important part of the item description. The photos are intended to show the overall visual condition of the apparatus, including possible imperfections, paint quality, decals if applicable, shelf wear, performance wear, and age-related characteristics.

LABELS

MagicTrickCollection.com does not rely on broad condition labels such as “good,” “very good,” “excellent,” or “mint” for vintage and antique magic effects. These terms can be subjective and may mean different things to different collectors. Instead, we believe clear photos from multiple angles provide the most accurate way to evaluate condition without revealing the working secrets of the effect.

OLD VERSUS NEW

Items listed under Rare & Vintage Collectible Magic may range from 10 to 100 years old or more. These are not new magic props. They may show signs of age, handling, storage, repairs, fragility, paint loss, decal wear, or prior performance use.

If your intent is to perform with the item, please understand that some vintage apparatus may require careful handling, adjustment, and practice. This disclosure is provided to help ensure buyers understand they are purchasing a vintage collectible magic item with age, history, and character—not a newly manufactured prop.