Classic Schemes · Carnival and sideshow era — 1800s onward
The Cursed Egg
A traveling showman displays a jeweled 'cursed egg' said to bring fortune to whoever unlocks its secret — for a small deposit and a signed promise. The egg is hollow, the curse is real, and the deposit is gone by dawn.
The Big Con
David W. Maurer
Now broadcasting: The Cursed Egg
Warning Signs
- A one-of-a-kind object promised to only the 'right' buyer.
- A mystical story used to justify secrecy and speed.
- A deposit taken now for a reveal that never quite arrives.
Protect Yourself
- Walk away from any deal that leans on mystery instead of proof.
- Never leave a deposit without a written, verifiable return policy.
- If the seller is leaving town tomorrow, so is your money.
Read Deeper
The Big Con
David W. Maurer
The classic 1940 field study of American grifters — inspired The Sting.
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Watch it unfold
Play the grift
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