By Melissa King, Updated Mar 24, 2022
Using a magnet to attract coins is a classic demonstration of magnetic forces. While everyday fridge magnets are too weak to lift even a single coin, a rare‑earth magnet—such as a neodymium magnet—provides the strength needed for a quick, impressive display.
Choose a high‑strength neodymium magnet. These can be purchased from specialty science suppliers or online stores that carry educational equipment.
Gather coins that contain iron. In the United States, circulating coins are not magnetic, but many foreign currencies—Canadian, New Zealand, Israeli, and others—do react to a magnetic field. Verify the coins with a small magnet before the experiment.
Hold the magnet a few centimeters above the coins. A magnetic coin will be drawn toward the magnet, and a strong neodymium magnet can pick up several coins in a single chain.
Rare‑earth magnets are extremely powerful. Keep them away from electronics, credit cards, and any device with magnetic storage. If two magnets are brought close together, they can snap together with great force, potentially causing injury. Never leave them within reach of small children.
