Metal-Detecting for Coins, Jewelry, and More

Metal-detecting can be a fun and exciting hobby, especially for people who enjoy the thrill of the hunt. It takes patience and practice, but the rewards can be well worth it. When you use a metal detector, you can find buried jewelry, coins, or even ancient artifacts!

People have been using metal detectors for more than a century, since the first rudimentary metal detector was invented in the 1800s. Famously, Alexander Graham Bell used this type of device to try to locate the bullet in President James Garfield's chest after he was assassinated. These days, metal detectors are used by security guards as well as hobbyists.

Getting Started With Metal-Detecting

It's fairly simple to start metal-detecting. The most important things you'll need are a metal detector, a sense of adventure, and some determination. You'll also need somewhere to look for treasures. Many people start with their own backyard; you might be surprised what's below the surface on your own property. Beaches are also popular places for metal-detecting.

• Ten Tips to Help You Find More Treasure With a Metal Detector
• How a Metal Detector Works
• Getting Started in Detecting
• Metal-Detecting and Treasure Hunting
• Eight Major Discoveries Made With Metal Detectors
• The Way a Metal Detector Works
• Treasure Hunt: Metal Detecting

Gear for Metal-Detecting

The most important tool you need is a good metal detector. It doesn't have to be expensive, but it does need to be reliable. You should also pack extra batteries to make sure that your detector doesn't fail you in the middle of an outing. It's also a good idea to use headphones with your detector, especially if you'll be searching somewhere with a lot of background noise. Since you'll need to unearth your finds, you'll also need a small shovel. If you're just starting out, a simple garden trowel will do. A sturdy pair of gloves is also a good idea, since the items you dig up could have sharp edges; a simple scrape or cut can lead to tetanus and a visit to the emergency room. And don't forget to bring a bag or backpack to carry your finds.

• Equipment and Tools for Metal-Detecting
• Eight Best Metal-Detecting Accessories
• Best Digging Tools for Metal-Detecting
• Accessories Every Metal-Detecting Hobbyist Needs
• What Are the Best Metal Detectors for Finding Coins?
• Ten Tools to Help You Find Gold and Silver

Clubs and Organizations

Metal-detecting can be a fun individual or group activity, and there are clubs all over the world dedicated to this hobby where you can meet like-minded people to go detecting with. Clubs are also great sources of help and advice for beginners.

• Metal-Detecting Clubs in the United States
• Metal-Detecting Clubs and Organizations in the U.K.
• Join a Metal-Detecting Club
• Texas Association of Metal-Detecting Clubs
• Federation of Metal Detector & Archeological Clubs

Metal-Detecting Tips and Resources

As with any hobby, you'll have more fun when you learn a bit about metal-detecting before you get started. For instance, it's always important to familiarize yourself with the rules about metal-detecting in your area, as there may be restrictions on where you can go. You should also practice in your yard to get familiar with how your metal detector works before you take it anywhere. Bury a few coins or a bracelet in your yard, then run the detector over them and listen to the beeping to get a sense of how it sounds when you're on or near a buried object. And once you're ready to go out hunting somewhere else, don't forget to pack everything you need, including the basics to stay safe outdoors, like a bottle of water and sunblock.

• Metal Detectors: Don't Dig Here
• Nine Essential Tips for Metal-Detecting
• Avoid These Common Beginner Metal-Detecting Mistakes
• Metal-Detecting and Archaeology
• Metal-Detecting Research Tips: Seven Essential Resources
• Metal-Detecting Tips and Advice
• 4 mm Gold Ball Bracelet
• Metal-Detecting on the Beach: Pro Tips
• Metal-Detecting: Uncovering Hidden Treasures and Tips for Beginners
• Five Best Places to Metal-Detect for Jewelry
• The Ultimate Guide to Metal-Detecting for Coins