Are you looking for an enjoyable and rewarding hobby? Why not try metal detecting! Not only is it a great way to get outside and enjoy nature, but you may also find some valuable treasures along the way. In this blog post, we will discuss the best places to metal detect old coins. Keep reading to learn more!
When you start metal detecting, you might be wondering how you can find a treasure like in the movies. It is going to be a little harder than you think to find a traditional treasure, but there are other things that you can find. Like old coins. Here is a mini-guide on how to find old, valuable coins in different places.
The best areas to look for old coins with a metal detector are places where there are a lot of people walking around. This includes parks, old playgrounds, and fairgrounds. You can also try looking for coins in older homes, but you will need permission from the owner before you start digging.
When metal detecting, you need to make sure that you have the proper permissions. You can get private property permissions by knocking on doors in older neighborhoods. Other places that are good for finding old coins are public places, like schoolyards, old battlefields, and beaches. “Location is everything” is a saying in this hobby.
Using a Pinpointer
When metal detecting, it might be helpful for you to use a pinpointer. A pinpointer can help you find small coins more easily in a specific area.
If you know there is something you are looking for that a regular metal detector can’t find; you can use a coil to search for it. This is called a “plug.” If the target is in the plug, the metal detector will make a noise.
If you have a large metal detector, you might not think to purchase a pinpointer. However, a pinpointer can be a great addition to your metal detecting kit.
What Coins Are Valuable?
There are a lot of valuable coins that are still circulating today. If you find these coins, you might be able to sell them for more than the value of a regular coin.
- 1943: Lincoln Head Copper Penny. This coin can sell for up to $10,000 if they’re authentic.
- 1955: Doubled Die Penny. These coins run for almost $2,000 if they’re in extremely good condition. The value comes from the misalignment when printing.
- 2004: Wisconsin State’ Extra Leaf’ Quarter. These coins have sold for up to $1,400.
Where Should I Avoid Looking for Coins?
There are some places where you are not allowed to find coins. You should not go to these places when metal detecting. One place you should not go is a cemetery.
It is considered very disrespectful to the deceased, and their families to metal detect in cemeteries. While there may be some valuable items to find, it is common courtesy not to search around the graves of people who have passed away.
Is it Okay to Use the Coins I Find While Metal Detecting?
What a coin is worth depends on what kind of coin it is. If it is an old coin that isn’t used anymore, it might be worth more money. But if you’re just a beginner, you might not know how much each coin is worth. You can learn more about it as you get more experience with metal detecting.
You can bring the modern coins you find to the bank or a Coinstar change machine. Most coins out of circulation are coins in denominations that are no longer used, or you could find a so destroyed coin that is unrecognizable. This is rare, but it does happen! If you have a mutilated coin, you can exchange it for reimbursement.
Where to Research About Finding Old Coins in My Area?
Some resources that you can use when looking for coins are from people who have been living in the place for a while and also looking in your local library. You can also ask around to see if anyone knows of any good places to find coins. Historical maps can be helpful in locating old settlements and spots of interest, like doing treasure hunting.
These methods are going to show you where people spent most of their time, where they resided hundreds of years ago, and where you should be looking for old coins when metal detecting.
Best Places to Detect Metal in Old Houses
If you can have permission, old houses can be an excellent place to find old coins. A property with an old house may have surrounding areas like old wells, underground cellars, and porch areas, where people used to drop things they didn’t want anymore.
People sometimes find old coins in places where houses used to be. The foundation or fireplace can be left behind when a house falls down. These are called old house sites. People used to bury their money and other things there to keep them safe.
What Metal Detector Finds Coins Best?
One of the most famous metal detectors on the market is the Minelab CTX 3030. This metal detector is a bit more expensive, but it is worth the price. It is very high-end and has many features that other metal detectors do not have.
This metal detector is for someone who knows how to use a metal detector and is looking for something specific. There are also detectors that are easier to use, but they will not be as good at finding specific things. It is better to learn how to use this model early on so you can find things quickly.
For a more affordable option, you can check out Minelab Equinox 800 reviews or Equinox 600.
Anyone can become a good metal detectorist with some practice.
What is more Rewarding: Magnet fishing or Metal Detecting?
Magnet fishing adventure and metal detecting are both activities that can be rewarding. They involve looking for things that are valuable. There are some differences between the two, though. Magnet fishing finds usually involve finding metal objects using fishing magnets with a very strong magnet.
Also, there are some places in this location that ban magnet fishing, like, West Virginia, Rhode Island, South Dakota, North Dakota, New Mexico. Seek advice if the magnet fishing laws state laws of local authorities if magnet fishers are allowed in this area. At the same time, metal detecting can involve finding other things, like coins or jewelry. Which activity is more rewarding depends on what you find and how much it is worth.
Conclusion
When looking for old coins, there are a few things you should keep in mind. If you’re a coin collector who is looking for something valuable, you can find old coins in many different places. You can do your own research to learn about the history of an area, and that may help you find rare old coins.
If you follow these useful tips, you’ll be able to find old metal coins and other treasures. The right type of treasure is the one that is valuable to you, whether it be an old coin or buried gold!
For more information about metal detecting, click here.
Frequently Asked Questions about Best Places To Metal Detect For Old Coins
Where can I find silver coins in metal detecting?
If you wish to find your first silver coin, old homes are a better place to look than public parks. The grass along a front walkway can also be a good spot. I’ve found a lot of silver coins metal detecting curb strips.
Where is the best place to find valuable coins?
There are a lot of places in your house where you can find old coins. The attic and the cellar are usually the best places to look. You can also find coins in storage boxes for clothes and in household items like old desks, wardrobes, and furniture.
Do all metal detectors detect gold?
Yes, all-metal detectors can find gold rings. However, some are better at finding small pieces of gold than others. For example, the Minelab Gold Monster and GPZ 7000 are specifically designed to find small gold pieces. When it comes to finding gold rings, most metal detectors will work, but some will be more effective than others.
Where is the best place to metal detect for gold?
The best-known place to find gold is at Rye Patch in Pershing County. Located in the east of Majuba Mountain near Rye Patch Reservoir, this is a popular spot for finding nuggets. Even though it has been hunted for decades, you can still find nuggets here if you’re lucky.
Can I metal detect on a beach?
If you enjoy metal detecting, the South Carolina beach can be a great place to do it. You’ll want to plan your visit during the Summer months so you can avoid the crowds. Early morning or later in the day will be best.
Are magnet fishing legal?
It is not unlawful to magnet fish on land where hobbyists have sought permission, nor is it prohibited. While these are infrequently enforced, the organization frowns upon magnet fishing because of “rusty and sharp” metal lying on the towpath and other risks.
Is it safe to touch neodymium magnet?
Neodymium magnets are very powerful. They can jump together, and if your finger is in the way, it can get severely pinched or even broken. They are also brittle and can easily shatter and break.