Treasure hunting with a metal detector is a great way to find coins, jewelry, and other valuable items. But there are several things you need to know before you go treasure hunting with any metal detector, either for coins, relics or just about anything else. The one thing to remember is that metal detecting for coins is not as easy as just swinging the detector and expecting to find treasure.

In this article, we’ll discuss some of the best methods for finding coins metal detecting. We’ll cover everything from how to choose the right equipment to where to look for treasures. So whether you’re a beginner or an experienced treasure hunter, be sure to read on for some helpful advice.
Contents
What Is Coin Shooting?
Coin shooting, also known as coin hunting, is a term used by those who treasure hunt or go metal detecting for coins with metal detectors.
There are two types of coin shooters, casual and professional. The casual coin shooter will do their hunting in areas that they think might be popular spots, such as parks, beaches, and other public areas where people might loose change.
Professionals, on the other hand, will search well away from populated areas looking for old homesites or out of the way areas that have been abandoned over the years. Even if the areas are in use today, chances are they’re not very busy. So there won’t be many people dropping change or anything else, making it easier to find older coins that are more valuable.
Coin shooting is one of the most popular ways to use a metal detector, and it’s also one of the easiest ways to find treasures. Coins are everywhere, and they can be found in all sorts of different places – from public parks to abandoned buildings and even underwater.
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Know What You’re Looking For
But, before you begin to metal detect, you will need to think about the type of coins that you would like to find.

There are a variety of different coins out there, and all are very different. Are you looking to just get out and swing your detector? If so, fresh drops at a local park or beach may be perfect for you. However, if you are looking for something collectible or that has more value, you will want to head out to a different location? Take the time to decide exactly what you want to find.
There are a variety of different coins out there, and all are very different. Are you looking to just get out and swing your detector? If so, fresh drops at a local park or beach may be perfect for you. However, if you are looking for something collectible or that has more value, you will want to head out to a different location? Take the time to decide exactly what you want to find.
Even if you already have a place in mind that you would like to hunt, you will still need to know what type of treasure may have been lost there. So based on your research which you will talk about in the next segment of this article, begin by determining what type of coins people may have lost there. Along with knowing who lost coins and why they were lost, you’ll also need to know the different types of coins that you can find with your metal detector. But we will talk about metal detectors and selecting the right one later in this article as well.
Then once you begin finding coins, see if you can read their origin and date. Doing so will not only help you learn about what you find but about the area that you are searching. You are
going to need to know how to identify coins as well as understand their values. Being able to identify them will allow you to target your searches and find valuable items such as old coins much quicker.
Do Your Research
Planning and identifying potential locations
Good research is essential when it comes to metal detecting. After all, you want to make sure you’re searching in the right places! That’s why it’s important to know what types of treasures you can find in different areas. For example, if you’re looking for coins, you’ll want to search in areas where people gather, such as parks and beaches. On the other hand, if you’re looking for Civil War relics, then you’ll want to search at historical battlefields. So take the time to do your research so you can maximize your chances of finding treasures!
So when you’re planning a coin hunting expedition, one of the most important things that you can do before going out is identify potential locations. Identifying locations can be done in a number of ways, including:
Old Photographs
Treasure hunters often use aerial photographs to help them identify possible locations to search. The advantage of using aerial photographs is that you can see features of the landscape that may not be visible from the ground. This includes detecting old home sites, churches, and other places where people might have dropped old coins.
Historical Maps

Both online and off, an excellent way to identify potential locations is by using historical maps that show where people handled loose change. You will often find coins near old sites such as train stations and hotels. It will take some time to understand old maps because they may be very different from what is at the location today. However, it is well worth the time and effort!
Local Residents
Another great way to find potential coin hunting locations is by talking to local residents. They will often know about abandoned homesites, old businesses, and other places where people might have dropped coins. Older residents who saw the area change will often be especially helpful.
Drones
Drones are becoming a popular tool for treasure hunters and metal detectorists. Not only are they an excellent way to get an aerial view of potential locations they can also identify historical sites that may not be visible from the ground. Seeing an area from above works best for old towns and out of the way places where people might have dropped coins.
Online
Another way to find good locations for coin hunting is by using online resources. Along with Google maps, there are several websites that have information on old sites and buildings where you may find old coins. Alternatively, you can search for maps that show where people used coins but no longer do today. These maps will give you an idea of where to look for older coins in places long forgotten.
The Library
Another way to find potential locations is by visiting your local library. Many books have been published that list old sites and buildings where coins have been found in the past. Some of these books are available to check out, for free, at your local library.
Identifying good locations for finding coins is extremely important because it can dramatically increase your chance of finding them. Therefore, research is one of the most essential parts of treasure hunting – make sure you do it!
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Best Places For Finding Coins
- Sidewalks – Believe it or not, a lot of coins have been lost on sidewalks – maybe even right in front of your home. It’s amazing how many detectorists think they need to travel to some way out location when old coins may be right there in front of them, just waiting to be found. Just be careful not to wander onto private property because if you do, you will need permission.
- Public Parks – These are also excellent places to find lost coins. So many people never even realize that they lose change while enjoying a nice day at a public park. There’s also a good chance that you’ll even find coin spills, meaning several coins in one area. And if you hunt an old park that has been around for a while, you may even find old coins and other items of value.
- Beaches – Who doesn’t love a day at the beach? But before you go, take your metal detector with you. You may be surprised by what you find. There are lots of coins that have been lost in the sand. Although most of them will tend to be newer and recently lost, you will often find coin spills worth a couple of dollars waiting to be discovered. Beaches are also excellent places to find gold rings.
Best Places For Finding Old Coins Metal Detecting
- Old houses – Got an old house in your neighborhood? Chances are that the land around it hasn’t been disturbed since the builder built the house. And the chances are even better that coins have been dropped over the years and lost. Many detectorists have found old coins in the yards of old houses. But always remember to get permission first!
- Churches – Church grounds are another excellent place for finding coins. People have been dropping coins in churchyards for centuries. In fact, there are probably lots of coins waiting to be discovered right at your local church.

Choosing The Right Metal Detector For Coin Hunting
When it comes to choosing the right metal detector, there are a few factors that you need to take into account.
- Budget – metal detectors can vary in price, beginning around $100. But if you want the best metal detector, be prepared to spend upwards of a thousand dollars. However, there are some very good middle of the road metal detectors out there that you can get for a couple of hundred bucks, which I would suggest using, especially if you are just starting out.
- Know Your Target – think about what you want to use the detector for – if you’re looking for something specifically designed to find small silver coins, then a different model will be required than if you’re prospecting for gold. Since your metal detector is your biggest investment, spend some time thinking about what you would like to find.
- Location – where do you plan to metal detect? You’ll need to think about the type of ground where you plan to go metal detecting, as well as the topography. For example, suppose you plan on searching in saltwater or for gold. In that case, you are best off using specialized metal detectors that you can ground balance, meaning adjust to the specific ground conditions.
- Weight – make sure that your metal detector isn’t too heavy. Remember that you will be swinging it for hours while carrying other equipment. Weight is especially important if you have neck, back, or other physical ailments.
- Quality – choose from a reputable brand that is known for quality metal detectors. Regardless of your budget, never try and save money on such an essential part of your treasure hunting experience.
The Right Search Coil For Finding Coins
The size and type of search coil that you use can make a big difference in your metal detecting experience. For example, a larger coil is better for finding larger targets in wide open areas, while a smaller coil is better for finding smaller targets in tightly confined spaces. Additionally, some coils are designed to detect certain types of metal better, while others work well in all types of terrain. So how do you choose the right coil for the job?
- Conditions – One way to determine the best search coil for your needs is to consider the conditions you will be searching. For example, if you are hunting in an area with a lot of trash, you will need a smaller search coil that is designed to minimize interference from those objects. A smaller coil can also detect deeper coins with less interference.
If you are hunting in a highly mineralized area, you will need a search coil that is designed to work well with those conditions. This is often associated with beach hunting and saltwater, where you will need a multi-frequency metal detector and a coil to go with it. - Targets – Some detectors operate on a higher frequency than others, and some coils are designed to work with specific frequencies. So if you are looking for a particular type of target, it is important to match the search coil to the detector. For example, gold has a higher conductivity than most other metals and therefore responds better to a higher frequency detector.
- Terrain – The type of terrain you will be hunting in is also an important consideration when choosing the right coil. If you will be hunting in a heavily wooded area, you’ll need a coil designed to work well in that type of terrain. Will you be hunting dense brush where a smaller coil will be easier to maneuver, or will you be at the beach where you will want your coil to cover as much ground as possible?
- Configuration – there are two main configurations of search coils. Some have a DD (double D) configuration, while others have a concentric design.
- Concentric Search Coils – are usually smaller and, therefore, better for treasure hunting in tightly confined areas. Smaller concentric coils are also more sensitive and better for finding gold.
- Double D Search Coils – are often larger coils and, therefore, can cover more ground. But of even more importance, because of the principle behind the way the coil works, it can search deeper and locate more treasure.
- Preference – Finally, it is important to remember that every metal detectorist has different needs, and what works well for one person may not work as well for another.
So be sure to experiment with different coils until you find the one that best suits your needs. And remember, the more you know about your equipment and the hunting conditions, the better your chances of finding treasure!
When choosing a coil, it is important to consider all of these factors in order to ensure you are getting the most out of your metal detecting experience.
Is Metal Detecting Legal – Get Permission or Permits
This should be a simple question to answer, yet it isn’t. There are no national standards for the fifty states or uniform rules for the thousands of municipalities throughout the United States.
Permits are required in a few states, while others ban unauthorized exploration in some areas. But always remember to obtain permission to dig on any private property where you’re looking for treasure.
Although this may seem unfair such laws safeguard sensitive archaeological locations and public land areas. While lawmakers aren’t attempting to stop treasure hunters, in particular, the legislation frequently impacts excavation and removal of items, which are unfortunately essential elements of treasure hunting – so be careful and respectful of property.
It is always best to contact local authorities before you begin metal detecting to find out if you need to know any laws or regulations. That’s why it’s essential to do your research before you start hunting. If you don’t have permission to dig at the site where you are hunting, you could end up facing harsh fines, misdemeanors, or even felony offenses. So be sure to do your research and play it safe!
IT IS ALWAYS BEST TO CONTACT LOCAL AUTHORITIES WHEN DETERMINING WHERE TO METAL DETECT.
Conclusion
We hope that you enjoyed reading the Ultimate Guide to Metal Detecting For Coins! Our goal was to provide you with enough information and valuable insight to maximize your chances of finding coins!
Whether your goal is to find old coins or just enjoy exploring with friends outdoors, you should always decide before heading off, especially before purchasing any equipment. Doing so will not only save you money but ensure that you have a much more enjoyable experience when metal detecting for coins.

You also want to make sure to have done your research. Knowing the law, where to look, and what you are looking for are all important steps in becoming a successful coin hunter!
So what are you waiting for? Get out there and start hunting for those long lost coins!
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FAQ
How deep can a metal detector find coins?
A coin can easily be found as deep as 8-10 inches, although the right detector can find targets deeper than that.
Where can I find silver coins when metal detecting?
Since silver coins are older coins, any old established location, such as an old beach park or town where people would loose change, is an excellent place to look.
What metal detector is best for coins?
A better quality metal detector will detect deeper and, therefore, older and more valuable coins. However, If you are looking for recently dropped change, then any metal detector will do.