Milson Worth Double Load Pagoda Cabinet

Scarce, Hard to Find

Product Details & Use

• Purpose: The cabinet is a magic apparatus, typically used to produce or vanish items, such as a rabbit or doves. The “double load” refers to a mechanism allowing the magician to secretly load items into the cabinet. The performer would show the cabinet empty, then produce items from within.
• Design: The cabinet features a distinctive pagoda style, often decorated with oriental-themed transfers and lacquer, reminiscent of the Okito style of magic props. Milson Worth was known for exceptional finishes and high-quality woodworking, often featuring polished brass hardware.
• Manufacturer: Milson-Worth (also referred to as Milson Worth, Worth Magic, or G&L MagicWorks) was a well-regarded American company based in Sun Valley, California, that manufactured high-end, collectible wooden magic props, particularly active in the 1970s through the 1990s.
• Collectibility: These items are highly sought after by collectors of vintage and antique magic apparatus due to their intricate design, quality construction, and the company’s reputation within the magic community.

Value & Availability

• Pricing: The price for a Milson Worth Double Load Pagoda Cabinet can vary significantly depending on its condition and the specific auction or private sale. Similar Milson Worth cabinets have appeared at magic auctions and online collectibles sites, with prices for various Milson Worth pieces often in the hundreds or over a thousand dollars, reflecting their collectible status.
• Availability: As a vintage and highly collectible item from a specific manufacturer, it is not available through standard retail channels. Availability is generally limited to specialist magic collectibles websites, magic auctions, or private sales.

Background

• The Merger: The company combined Charlie Johnson’s “Milson Magic” line with Jim Simon’s “Worth Magic” line, with the merger finalized in the mid-1970s.
• Worth Magic (Jim Simon): Originally based in Texas and later moving to California, Simon created high-quality wooden magic, according to The Genii Forum.
• Milson Magic (Charlie Johnson): Known for producing close-up magic.
• Legacy: Lynn Johnson took over operations after Charlie’s passing, continuing the legacy of creating high-quality, sought-after magic props.

Recent SALE Examples: 

Click on each to view.

Potter & Potter and MagicCollectibles.com

Condition

The 360 degree view in the pictures is an important aspect of the overall condition classification and outlines just how fine and in collectible condition this very beautifully decorated prop is; certainly one the finest from Milson Worth.

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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.