The signs tout the area as the "official spare change recycling center of the Olympics."
The idea is a fairly simple one: If you need some change, take some. If you have some change, leave some.
The notion is a novel one, a twist on traditional panhandlers asking passersby for money.
And the signs are different, too. Rather than the typical crude requests for assistance scrawled on pieces of cardboard, these are neatly penned with assorted colored markers.
One, next to the "Magic Hat" filled with spare change and cigarettes for taking or giving, amuses its readers.
"If you need $100, I don't have it. But if you have $100, I could sure use it."
The maker of the signs ? who prefers to be called "Sky" ? said he hopes they bring a smile to people's faces and encourages them to contribute.
"I want to make people laugh, that's why I have the signs," said the Colorado man. "I can't just beg for money like some people do."
Police aren't reporting any increase in panhandlers during the Games, which is unexpected for an operation that big.
"I haven't seen a single problem come up with that," Salt Lake County Sheriff's deputy Peggy Faulkner said.
Many downtown have reported being approached by a pair of men asking for money. When they are refused, the two men reportedly become confrontational, but walk away.
But overall, no safety issues have arisen from downtown panhandlers, Salt Lake City Police Sgt. Fred Louis said.
Contributing: Pat Reavy
E-MAIL: awelling@desnews.com