Unlocking the Mystery: How to Identify Your Metal Detecting Finds

Metal detecting is an exciting and rewarding hobby that has been around for centuries. It involves using a metal detector to locate buried objects such as coins, artifacts, jewelry, and other valuable items. However, identifying the finds can sometimes be challenging, especially for beginners who are just starting out in this hobby.

In this tutorial-style post, we will guide you through the process of identifying metal detecting finds. We will cover some of the most common types of items that are found while metal detecting and provide tips on how to determine their age and value.

Coins

Coins are one of the most common items found while metal detecting. They come in different sizes and shapes and can be made from various metals such as copper, silver, gold or bronze. To identify a coin’s age and value, you need to first determine its country of origin by looking at its design or inscriptions.

Once you have identified the country of origin (such as Britain), look for any dates or markings on the coin that may indicate its year of production. Coins produced before 1965 usually contain silver which makes them more valuable than modern coins produced after 1970.

You can also use online resources like coin catalogs to help identify your finds with accuracy.

Jewelry

Another popular item found while metal detecting is jewelry which includes rings, necklaces bracelets among others. Jewelry comes in different styles and materials making it even harder to identify without proper knowledge.

To determine whether a piece is real gold or not rub some vinegar onto it then observe if there’s any discoloration caused by acid reaction; real gold won’t react whereas plated ones will show signs after rubbing with vinegar solution.

The best way to evaluate gems/stones embedded into jewelry pieces would be taking help from professional gemologists since there are many fake stones available in markets today.

Bullets/Shell Casings

Bullet casings/shell casings are also commonly discovered while metal detecting but identifying them can be difficult. You need to look carefully at the shape and markings on the bullet or casing to determine its caliber and type.

The best way would be taking help from professionals as they have better knowledge about bullets, their calibers, types among others.

Artifacts

Finally, artifacts are perhaps some of the most exciting finds that metal detectorists can discover. They include items such as pottery shards, arrowheads, and other relics from ancient civilizations.

Identifying artifacts requires knowledge of history and archaeology. You need to look for distinctive shapes or designs that may indicate their age and origin. For instance, an arrowhead with a triangular shape is usually associated with Native Americans while a Roman coin indicates a more ancient civilization.

Conclusion

In conclusion, identifying metal detecting finds can be both fun and challenging. It’s important to do your research before setting out on this hobby so you know what to expect when you find something interesting while metal detecting.

Remember that sometimes it’s better to take help from professionals if you’re not sure about your finds since they have vast knowledge in fields like history/archaeology/bullets etc which will make identification more accurate than guessing by oneself.

With these tips in mind, we hope that you’ll feel confident enough to start exploring the amazing world of metal detecting!