Leipzig was born the third youngest of eight children—seven boys and one girl—in Stockholm, Sweden.
[1] He grew up in Detroit, Michigan, and at 12 years old started work as a lens-maker for L. Black & Co.[2] He then joined Max Rudelsheimer's optical business, and worked there 17 years, but continued to accept performance engagements.
[citation needed] In May 1938, Leipzig was elected president of the Society of American Magicians (SAM).
Previous presidents of SAM include Howard Thurston and Harry Houdini.
His innovations of sleight of hand, particularly with card tricks and close-up magic, earned him respect among fellow magicians.