Miscellany: The utility of spare change...

I like to keep some change in my wallet at all times (I use one of those cheap zip-up wallets - ugly, but effective). Aside from the ways in which they come in handy as mere currency (toll booths, pay phones, vending machines, etc.), coins can be fantastic at doing all those odd jobs that might otherwise be relegated to some poor multi-tool.

Many screws and slots are obviously designed with coins in mind, whether it's the back of your LED keychain or the windage adjustment on a rifle scope. You can practice all sorts of games and tricks - elementary sleight of hand (like the classic "French Drop"), juggling, balancing...the list goes on and on. In a pinch, you can even throw coins like mini shuriken to distract an attacker (aim for the face :P).