by Michael Bernzweig ………….
There are a lot of places to find new coins to add to your coin collection; antique shops, online auctions, and trading with fellow collectors are just a few. In addition to these options, there are quite a few coin collectors that now utilize metal detectors in order to improve their collections. To discuss just how metal detectors can improve coin collections, as well as to share some tips so we can all get in on the fun is Michael Bernzweig of MetalDetector.com.
Metal detectors find a lot of different types of treasures, but coins are some of the most common. It’s not surprising when you think about it. Coins are easily lost, have been used throughout history, and, they’re made of metal so they’re easy for metal detectors to find. In fact, I’ve found so many coins since I began metal detecting as a child that metal detecting actually led me to coin collecting!
Using a metal detector to enhance your coin collection is not only easy though, it also allows you to be the first to see the coin again since it made it’s way underground. I can’t put into words how exciting this is. And, not only that, the coin itself becomes more meaningful because you got to see where it was the last time it saw the light of day. While previous owners can share details of where the coin was found when you buy it, that will never be the same as actually being there yourself.
To start finding your own coins, you’ll need a metal detector designed with a good target identification system to help you differentiate more clearly between trash and treasures. Be sure to read the article entitled “What are the Best Metal Detectors for Finding Coins” for tips on equipment selection. Depending on your preference you can find models with audio and/or visual target ID systems. A metal detector with manual ground balance controls can be helpful in heavily mineralized ground conditions, like in and around salt water for example. And, a pinpointing feature can be of great assistance when coin shooting as well in order to make zeroing in on your target more precise. From here the weight of the machine, it’s additional features, and, of course, price will help you determine which specific make and model of metal detector will be best !
for your coin hunting adventures.
Once you’ve got your metal detector, head outside and take a look around your backyard. You never know what you might find! If you don’t know the property owner where you’d like to go coin shooting, be sure to get permission first. And, as metal detectorists, we like to leave the area in the same condition we found it. No trash left behind (even the stuff we dig up), we fill in our holes, and we don’t cut branches or trees or otherwise disturb the land. Otherwise, enjoy yourself! Searching for coins is so much fun and, you never know what you might find – maybe even the rarest coin you’ve ever seen.
About the author:
Michael Bernzweig manages MetalDetector.com in Southborough, MA. He has written extensively on the subject of metal detecting since the mid 1980’s. He has traveled world-wide in his pursuit of educating, exploring and advising others in the proper use of metal detectors. Outside of the business he enjoys mentoring students, being involved in the community and spending time with his family.
