The things that can be done with the magnets and the new coins have fascinated young and old alike. The rolling of a coin along the top, or underside, of a wire coathanger, or unopened steel can, has amazed many top physicists and engineers, and as far as is known has not been observed previously. The levitating pyramid of coins that can be built using the magnets was shown for the first time at the 1995 Annual Congress of the Institute of Physics, and was pictured in The Times. In addition to such functional aspects many have also commented on the aesthetic qualities of the magnets both with and without the coins attached. The black plastic cushioned ends and the non-magnetic stainless steel sleeves, specially chosen to prevent the ceramic magnets chipping but without affecting their optimum magnetic field, make them both attractive to the eye and to the touch.
Artistic opportunities abound.
By asking questions and simple experiment, one thing followed another until the magnet packs and a collection of interactive exhibition models resulted. It was the enthusiasm shown by children, adults, teachers and top scientists alike, when playing with the models, that provided the drive to make these stimulating packs of specially designed relatively low cost magnets available to all. Provided additional sponsorship can be found the very popular exhibition for all ages can be readily restaged.