Yes, you can keep what you find while metal detecting, but there are a few laws and regulations you will need to be aware of. In general, it is illegal to metal detect on public property without permission from the landowner.
It is also not allowed to metal detect on state, federal, or Native American land. Private land is typically fair territory for detecting, but you must still have permission. As for finds, typically anything found on private property is yours to keep, unless an agreement is made with the landowner beforehand.
However, historical artifacts that are found, need to be reported to the local museum or office of archaeology or history. In some cases, local or state laws may apply to metal detecting and finds on private land.
Before embarking on a metal detecting expedition, always research the local rules and regulations.
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What do you do with metal detecting finds?
Once you’ve made a discovery with your metal detector, the next step is to determine the origin and historical significance of the find. Depending on your individual preference and the nature of the artifacts, there are a few different things you can do with them.
If you are confident that the artifact is of value and/or historical significance, you may choose to donate it to a museum, where it will be preserved and curated for future generations to enjoy.
If the artifact is not one that is of particular interest to the museum, or it is of a sentimental value, you may choose to keep it in a safe place in your home or display it in a shadow box.
If you believe the artifact may have been lost and not just buried, you may choose to reach out to the local municipality or police to alert them of your find and arrange to return it to its rightful owner.
You may also choose to sell antique artifacts, depending on the value and demand for them. Coin dealers, collectible shops, and educational institutions may be interested in buying your finds.
Whatever you choose to do with your metal detecting finds, it is important to remember to research and report your finds to local authorities and historical societies. This will ensure any artifacts of importance are available to the public and are not lost to their rightful owners, or to history.
What are the three golden rules of metal detecting?
The three golden rules of metal detecting are:
1. Respect the land and its owners: Always seek permission to detect wherever you go and when metal detecting always leave the area exactly as you found it by covering any holes you have dug and returning stones or objects to their original locations.
2. Research, Research, Research: Before you head out, research the area by consulting historical sources or local experts to get a better idea of the ground’s history and the types of items you may find.
Research also ensures that you are not violating any laws or infringing on any historical sites.
3. Know your detector: Before heading out, it is essential to have a basic understanding of your metal detector and how it works. Read the instruction manual thoroughly and practice in a variety of areas and different types of soil conditions.
Be sure that you customize the settings of your machine to the conditions so you can get the most out of it.
Do I need permission to metal detect in Woods?
Yes, you do need permission to metal detect in woods. Depending on where you plan to detect, you may need approval from several authorities. For example, if you’re detecting in a national park or other type of public land, you will need to obtain permission first.
Generally, you will need approval from the landowner, park rangers, local law enforcement and other government agencies. In addition, some states require you to obtain a permit before metal detecting in certain areas.
It is important to contact the appropriate individuals or organizations before you start metal detecting in order to avoid any legal issues.
How do you clean old coins found in the ground?
Cleaning old coins found in the ground is a delicate process that should be done slowly and carefully to prevent damage to the fragile metal. The first step is to soak the coins in distilled water for about 24 hours to remove any dirt and grime.
After soaking, use an old, soft toothbrush to gently brush off any dirt or debris. It is important to be gentle and use light strokes in order to avoid damaging the coin. If the coin is still covered in dirt, then use one part white vinegar to two parts distilled water to create an acidic cleaning solution and repeat the soaking and brushing process.
Once the coin has been cleaned, dry it off with a soft cloth or let it naturally air dry. After the coin is dry, inspect the coin and check to see if there is any corrosion or damage. If the coin is in good condition and shows no signs of corrosion, then it is safe to lightly buff and polish the coin with a slightly damp cloth.
However, it is important to note that if the coin is corroded, it should not be buffed and polished as this might damage the coin further.
What is the most valuable thing found with a metal detector?
The most valuable thing ever found with a metal detector is an Anglo-Saxon silver and gold ingot worth a reported £145,000. The trove of treasure was discovered in a field near the village of High Wycombe in Buckinghamshire by amateur treasure hunter Barry Chandler in September 2010.
It is believed to be part of the Penmorfa Hoard, a cache of Anglo-Saxon coins and jewellery that dates back to the 8th century and is thought to be worth around £275,000. The hoard was declared treasure by coroner Richard Marathon, and was later purchased by museums in Shropshire, Herefordshire and Gloucestershire.
In addition to the priceless ingot, other items found included a Byzantine gold coin and 75 silver coins from Northumbria.
Does anyone ever find anything with a metal detector?
Yes, people do find things with metal detectors! Depending on where you are looking, you could find coins and jewelry, like rings and watches, or something more unusual like old tools or military items.
Different metal detectors are better at finding different things, so the types of objects you can find will vary. People have found all sorts of things, like Civil War artifacts, lost wallets and purses, unknown relics, and even buried treasure.
In some areas, you may need permission to use a metal detector, but in most places, it’s perfectly legal. Metal detectors are also quite affordable and easy to use, so they can be a great way to discover hidden treasures.
How deep are coins when metal detecting?
The depth at which coins are detected when metal detecting is highly variable and depends on several factors. Metal detector sensitivity and ground mineralization, size of the target, shape, and the detector’s ability to discriminate between ferrous and non-ferrous metals all play a role in how deep a coin can be detected.
In ideal conditions, coins can be detected at depths of up to 12 inches or more. On average, typical coins can be detected at 8 inches, but this can vary greatly depending on the conditions. Wet sand, for example, can increase the depth of detection.
Other objects like nails can decrease the depth of detection for coins due to interference in the signal. Reasonable expectations for coins when metal detecting would be more likely to detect coins at two to four inches deep with more experienced metal detectorists likely seeing greater depths.
Does a metal detector find coins?
Yes, a metal detector can find coins. Coins are typically made of metal, which means that a metal detector can easily detect a coin that is buried in the ground. Depending on the size of the coin, some metal detectors are more sensitive than others and can find coins that may be deeper in the ground.
Generally, a good quality metal detector can detect coins up to a depth of about 8 inches. Besides finding coins, metal detectors are also commonly used to find lost jewelry, weapons, and other valuable items that may be buried or hidden in various places.
Can you metal detect in graveyards?
Yes, you can use a metal detector in graveyards. In most countries and states, it is legal, but it is always important to ask for permission first as some may not allow it. Metal detecting in graveyards can be a great pastime and hobby as it can uncover a variety of artifacts, such as coins, jewelry, buttons, and other objects from the past that are associated with the cemetery’s history.
However, due to the sensitive nature of graveyards, it is important to remember to use good etiquette and respect the place, the people buried there, and any religious customs. Respect should be given when excavating, and any artifacts found should be placed back exactly as they were found.
Finally, be sure to document everything! Take photos of the detections, note the exact location, and find out what the object is before anything else. Doing some research can give you a better understanding of the objects and the history of the site.
What happens if you find a hoard of coins?
If you find a hoard of coins, the first thing you should do is to contact the local or state archaeological authorities or museum as soon as possible. Depending on the age and variety of coins, the find may be of archaeological significance, and the experts may need to make further investigations.
Additionally, if the hoard is discovered on private property, the landowner may have a claim to the coins.
The next step should be to record and document the location, condition, and any notes about the coins. If possible, take detailed photographs of the collection from multiple angles and distances. Additionally, record any relevant information about the find spot, as this may be necessary for a professional appraisal.
After contacting the authorities and collecting any necessary information, it is important to find out the value of the coins. Experienced coin dealers and appraisers should be able to estimate the value of the coins and give advice about whether the collection should be sold or not.
While finding a hoard of coins can be an exciting experience, it is important to remember the legal and archaeological implications. This will help ensure the coins are well taken care of and that the new owner is able to enjoy their find.
