Choosing the Best Metal Detector for Coins and relics

Choosing the right metal detector for coins, jewelry and relics is super important. If you use the wrong detector, you might miss out on valuable items or waste time digging up junk.

A good coin detector can help you find more coins faster and have more fun while doing it.

Key Takeaways: What You’ll Learn from This Article

In this article, we’ll talk about what makes a metal detector good for finding coins, jewelry and relics. We’ll look at the special features these detectors have and how they’re different from regular metal detectors. 

By the end, you’ll know what to look for when choosing a metal detector for coin hunting.

If you are new to metal detection then learn about beginner metal detectors to select the most appropriate device for yourself.                      

How coin and relic specific detectors differ from general-purpose ones:

These specific metal detectors are designed with features that make them really good at finding coins, jewelry and relics:

1. They often have higher frequencies, which are better for detecting small, thin objects like coins.
2. Their discrimination settings are optimized to ignore common junk metals while still detecting the metals used in coins.
3. They usually have more precise target ID systems to help you identify coins accurately.
4. Many coin detectors have special search modes just for finding coins.
5. They might have smaller search coils for better precision in areas with lots of trash.

General-purpose detectors, on the other hand, are designed to find a wide range of objects. They might not be as good at finding coins and relics in tough conditions, but they’re more versatile for finding different types of metal objects.

Here are the best metal detector for coins, jewelry and Relics:

These are the Deepest Metal Detector for Coins and Relics:

• GoldXtra Revealer

Key Features:

• User-Friendly Analogue Design: Advanced yet simple to operate, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned detectorists.
• Two Powerful Modes:
• Mineral Mode: Highly stable, even in extremely mineralized soil, ensuring accurate detection in tough conditions.
• Boost Mode (All Metal Mode): Offers unparalleled depth for finding coins, relics, and treasures, reaching depths that other detectors can’t match.
• Pinpointing: Non-motion mode helps you pinpoint the exact location of your target with precision.
• Powerful Flashlight: Built-in flashlight for detecting in low light conditions, making it perfect for nighttime or dark areas.
• Interchangeable Coils: Customize your detection experience with the option to switch between different coils.
• Wired Headphones Included: Comes with high-quality wired headphones for clear and focused audio signals.
• Perfect for Coins and Relics: Specifically designed to uncover coins, relics, and treasures at extraordinary depths, making every hunt a potential treasure trove.

The GoldXtra Revealer combines advanced features with ease of use, making it an ideal tool for finding hidden treasures. 

• GoldXtra Revealer Plus

 Key Features:

• This advance detecting machine has all the features  of “GoldXtra Revealer” along with below mentioned advanced features. 
• Bluetooth Connectivity: Easily connect to your mobile device through a Bluetooth app for seamless control and updates.
• Expert Settings: Customize your detecting experience with expert settings, including auto ground balance and advanced discrimination.
• 8 Detection Modes: Choose from 8 unique modes to fine-tune your search, including a special Gold Nugget Mode for targeting gold specifically.
• Notch Filter & Iron Discrimination: Filter out unwanted metals like iron and focus on finding valuable treasures with precision.
• Soil Mineralization Measurement: Detect and measure soil mineralization levels, ensuring you’re searching in the best spots.
• Multifrequency Detection: Benefit from multiple frequencies to accurately detect a wide range of metals.
• Dual Coils: Comes with two coils for versatile searching, whether you’re after small nuggets or larger, deeper treasures.
• Bluetooth Headphone Compatibility: Enjoy wireless freedom with Bluetooth headphones, making your treasure hunts more comfortable and focused.

The GoldXtra Revealer Plus is designed for both seasoned detectorists and beginners, offering advanced features in a user-friendly package. Whether you’re searching for gold nuggets or exploring highly mineralized grounds, this detector has you covered!

• GoldXtra Unveiler

Key Features:

• This High-tech detector combines all the powerful features of the GoldXtra Revealer and Revealer Plus models, taking your metal detecting experience to the next level.
• What truly sets this device apart is its Advanced LCD Display, which provides clear, real-time information to help you make quick, informed decisions during your hunts.

Top Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Metal Detector for Coins, jewelry and Relics

1. Frequency and Sensitivity

Frequency is like the pitch of a sound. Metal detectors use different frequencies to find coins. Higher frequencies (like 15-20 kHz) are better for small, thin coins, while lower frequencies (around 5-10 kHz) can find deeper, larger objects.

Some detectors let you change frequencies, which is handy for different situations.

Sensitivity is how well the detector can pick up small signals. Higher sensitivity means you can find smaller or deeper coins, but it might also pick up more unwanted signals.

2. Discrimination Capabilities

This feature helps your detector tell the difference between coins and junk like bottle caps or nails. 

Good discrimination saves you time by ignoring the stuff you don’t want to dig up. Some detectors let you adjust discrimination setting, so you can focus on finding specific types of coins.

3. Ground Balance

Different soils contain minerals that can confuse your detector. Adjusting ground balance helps your detector ignore these minerals and focus on finding coins.

Some detectors adjust this automatically, while others let you do it manually. This is really important if you’re hunting in areas with lots of minerals in the soil.

4. Search Coil Size and Type

The search coil is the round part at the bottom of the detector that you sweep over the ground. Smaller coils (about 5-8 inches) are great for finding small coins in trashy areas.

Larger coils (10-15 inches) can search deeper and cover more ground, but might miss small targets. Some coils are waterproof, which is useful for beach hunting.

No matter your experience level, understanding your metal detector’s coil is essential. Regular testing ensures it’s working properly, saving you time and energy.

Would you like to know how to test a metal detector coil?

5. Weight and Ergonomics

If you’re going to spend hours searching, you want a comfortable detector. Look for one that’s lightweight (around 2-4 pounds) and has an adjustable arm support. 

Some detectors have special grips or angled stems to make them easier to use for long periods.

6. Budget Considerations

Metal detectors can cost anywhere from $100 to over $1000. More expensive doesn’t always mean better for your needs. 

Think about how often you’ll use it and what features are most important to you. Sometimes, a mid-range detector (around $300-$500) can be a good balance of features and cost.

7. Depth Detection

This is how deep the detector can find metals. Most good coin detectors can find coins 6-8 inches deep, but some high-end models might go as deep as 12-15 inches. 

Remember, depth can vary based on the size of the coin and the soil conditions.

Additional Considerations

8. Target ID

This helps you identify what kind of metal you’ve found before you dig.

9. Waterproofing

If you want to hunt on beaches or in shallow water, look for a fully waterproof detector.

10. Pinpointing

This feature helps you locate the exact spot of the coin, making digging easier and more precise. Many coin hunters use external pinpointers for better accuracy.

11. Warranty and Customer Support

A good warranty can protect your investment, and helpful customer support can be crucial when you’re learning to use your detector.

12. Detecting Location

Think about where you’ll be using your detector most. Different detectors work better in different environments like parks, beaches, or historical sites.

13. Multi-frequency Detectors

These are more advanced and can handle challenging soil conditions better. They’re usually more expensive but can be worth it if you’re serious about coin hunting.

Remember, the best detector for you depends on your specific needs and where you’ll be using it. It’s often a good idea to start with a mid-range detector and upgrade as you gain more experience.

If you want to discover coins, jewelry or relics with precision with less time and effort make sure to check out metal detecting tips for coins.

If you want to find coins or other lost jewelry items at the beach then you must buy the  appropriate beach metal detector.

Best Metal Detectors for Coin Hunting

Entry-level options

Entry-level metal detectors are great for beginners who want to try coin hunting without spending too much money. These detectors usually cost between $100 to $300. They’re simpler to use but still effective for finding coins.

These detectors may not have all the advanced features of more expensive models, but they’re excellent for getting started and learning the ropes of coin hunting.

Mid-range detectors

Mid-range detectors offer more features and better performance than entry-level models. They usually cost between $300 to $800. These detectors are suitable for serious hobbyists who want to improve their coin and relic finding abilities.

Mid-range detectors often have better discrimination, more accurate target identification, and can detect coins at better depths than entry-level models.

High-end, professional-grade detectors

These are the top-of-the-line detectors used by serious coin, relic and jewelry hunters. They usually cost over $800 and can go up to several thousand dollars. They offer the best performance and most advanced features.

These detectors offer the best technology available, including advanced signal processing, multi-frequency operation, and GPS tracking. They’re ideal for those who are serious about coin hunting and want the best possible results.

Popular Coin and relic Detector Categories

1. 1. VLF Detectors (Very Low Frequency): VLF detectors are the most common type used for coin hunting. They work by sending a low-frequency signal into the ground and analyzing the response from metal objects.

                Strengths for coin hunting:

• • Good at distinguishing between different types of metals

• • Effective in most soil conditions

• • Generally more affordable than other types

• • Great for beginners and experienced users alike

2. 2. PI Detectors (Pulse Induction): PI detectors send powerful pulses of electricity into the ground. They’re less affected by mineralization in the soil, which makes them great for use in challenging environments.

                 Strengths for coin hunting:

• • Excellent performance in saltwater and mineralized soils

• • Can detect coins at greater depths than most VLF detectors

• • Less affected by small pieces of trash in the ground

3. 3. Multi-Frequency Detectors: These detectors can operate at several frequencies simultaneously or allow the user to switch between frequencies. This versatility makes them adaptable to various hunting conditions.

               Strengths for coin hunting:

• • Can perform well in a wide range of soil conditions

• • Good at distinguishing between different types of metals

• • Can often detect a wider range of coin sizes and compositions

• • Useful for hunting in areas with mixed terrain

Each type of detector has its strengths, and the best choice depends on where you’ll be hunting, your experience level, and your budget.

VLF detectors are great all-rounders for coin hunting, PI detectors excel in challenging environments, and multi-frequency detectors offer versatility for various conditions.

Metal detectors go beyond coins! Explore a range of detectors for different metals.

 

Coin and Relic Hunting in Various Locations

Location matter a lot when it come to metal detecting. Here are other popular metal detecting location you should know.

Coin and jewelry Hunting in Parks and Public Places

Parks, especially older ones, are great for beginners. They have high foot traffic, increasing the likelihood of finding coins. 

Be respectful of public spaces: fill in holes and avoid prohibited areas. Always check local regulations before starting your search.

Coin and Relic Hunting on Civil War Battlefields

Civil War battlefields can yield historically significant finds. However, metal detecting is illegal on protected battlefield sites. 

Ensure you have permission and respect the historical significance of any items you find. Detect with care on privately owned lands near battlefields.

Coin Hunting in Old Mining Towns

Old mining towns offer a glimpse into the gold rush era and can yield coins and other relics. 

Be cautious of the terrain and potential hazards like abandoned structures and old shafts. Secure necessary permissions if the site is on private property or protected land.

Finding Coins and jewelry at the Beach

Beaches, especially those with high tourist traffic, are popular for finding modern coins, jewelry, and historical treasures. The movement of sand and water can uncover buried items. 

Use a waterproof metal detector, especially for shallow water searches. Pay attention to tides and beach rules to ensure a safe and productive hunt.

By following these tips and choosing the right metal detector, you can enhance your coin-hunting experience and increase your chances of making exciting discoveries.

Preparation and Techniques for Effective Coin and Relic Hunting

Research and Planning

Begin by researching historical maps and records to find promising sites like old parks and fairgrounds. Use online databases, local libraries, and historical societies for information.

Plan your hunt based on this research to increase your chances of success. Scouting the area beforehand helps understand the terrain and any modern changes.

Proper Scanning Techniques

Sweep the metal detector coil slowly and low to the ground, overlapping your movements for thorough coverage. Maintain a steady speed to avoid missing targets. 

Listen for distinct tones or signals that indicate coins. Regular practice will improve your technique and detection accuracy.

Digging and Preservation

When you find a target, dig carefully to avoid damaging the coin. Use a hand trowel or a specialized digging tool.

Cut a neat, circular plug around the signal area and lift it gently. Handle coins with care, especially if they are old or valuable. Clean minimally to preserve the coin’s condition, consulting experts if unsure.

Conclusion

My recommendation for finding coins with a metal detector is to start with a model that offers good sensitivity and clear discrimination settings. 

It’s important to practice in different areas to get a feel for how your detector reacts to various metals. 

Remember, patience is key; sometimes, the best finds take time. Keep learning and adjusting your techniques, and you’ll increase your chances of uncovering those hidden treasures.