5 Best Metal Detectors for Coins

A metal coin detector is an instrument that can be used to detect the presence of solid metallic items, most often coins and jewelry. There are different types of detectors for various purposes, but they all have one thing in common: they work by generating electromagnetic fields that interact with nearby metal objects.

A coin or other item will produce a distinctive sound when it is detected by a working detector. This makes it possible to find coins hidden in lost places where people don’t usually look – like under carpets, behind walls, inside furniture, and so on. It’s also useful for security checks and some industrial applications such as detecting leaks in gas pipelines.

Metal detectors come in many shapes and sizes – from handheld devices that can be operated by a single person, to large and more expensive instruments that require two or three people. 

They operate on different principles – from extremely simple devices based only on magnetic sensors to the highly complex pulse induction detectors capable of detecting minute amounts of metal.

The best metal detectors for coins can be found by answering these 3 questions:

• What type of coin are you seeking? 
• What is the size of the coin? 
• What is your budget? 

If you want to find more silver coins, then a larger detector will function in a more efficient way. If you are looking for smaller gold or copper coins, then a smaller device will operate better. Keep in mind that different types of metals like zinc and aluminum may not show up on some detectors at all!

Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV Metal Detector – the Editor’s choice!

Bounty Hunter is proud to offer this TK4 Tracker IV Metal Detector. Use it to find treasure from extreme ground conditions.

It features the Motion All-Metal mode, Discrimination mode, and 2-Tone audio mode as well as default Ground Balance preset that neutralizes ground minerals content – leaving only the target metal detectors. TK4 tracker IV metal detector sounds an alarm to let you know what it’s found through its LCD digital readout screen.

With preset ground balance to compensate for mineral content in the earth, you can confidently explore all sorts of grounds with confidence that your unit will read true. For when it’s time to dig up the prized possession buried in the dirt, this machine has got you covered!

But there are more ways to use this amazing device than just seeking out valuables underfoot – take a look at the included all-metal mode and discrimination mode settings for even more astounding features.

This Bounty device can become your rugged, durable metal detector ideal for all your treasure hunting needs.

Fisher F22 Weatherproof Metal Detector – the best for the long battery life!

The Fisher F22 is an all-purpose device, so you can relax knowing it’s weather-resistant for outdoor adventures.

This device has visual identification by category and makes it operational at two AA batteries and is easy to assemble and use! Never worry about forgetting if you’ve already searched an area like before: the F22 Weatherproof Detector by Fisher is made for security pros who want to find hidden wires or metals in any environment.

The weatherproof Fisher F22 comes with 9 standard search modes, each of which can be customized individually to suit any type of search terrain or preference.

The Fisher F22 Weatherproof Detector is the ideal all-purpose metal detector for private and hobby use. It operates on 2 AA batteries (25-30 hours of full battery cycle), features visual target id by category, and has adjustable iron audio.

Garrett AT Pro Metal Detector – the best for detecting coins in the water!

Garrett, the world-renowned metal detector manufacturer, has produced a long line of detectors that search for treasures in all sorts of terrain. Now they’ve unleashed the ultimate underwater treasure seeker: The Garrett AT Pro Metal Detector.

This waterproof “land fish” can detect an object 10 feet below the surface and is ideal for use in both fresh and saltwater suits!

And with their included new MS-2 headphones you will get great sound quality right there on your head. You’ll also find batteries installed so you won’t need to worry about cords while diving/snorkeling too far out from shore!

The Garrett AT Pro with MS-2 headphones can detect your gold and jewels at a maximum depth of 10 feet. It’s waterproof and ground balance for saltwater.

Minelab Equinox 800 Metal Detector – the best for detecting the coins on different terrains!

The Minelab detector is the only metal detector to combine the power of multiple detectors in one for comprehensive searching. Rugged construction allows you to use near or far water or even buried under 10 feet of dirt!

Its LCD screen lets you choose between 4 different metal detector modes tailored to your preferred ground conditions or target types along with custom search profiles that allow you to save 8 settings. Minelab’s multipurpose machine has everything you could need in today’s treasure hunt.

The Minelab device is the best in its class and provides you with multi-faceted precision and ultimate depth, for any high-performance treasure hunting.

Fisher Gold Bug Pro Metal Detector – the best for portability!

Find the gold among the chaos with the ultra-lightweight Fisher Gold Bug Pro. This metal detector is designed for both novice and expert miners, featuring accurate detection that won’t lead you astray. The ground phase value displays humidity, mineralization percentage, or signals of historic artifacts on your screen so you can find precious metals more efficiently.

When you’re out prospecting for gold nuggets, it can be hard to figure what’s on the ground without a lot of backbreaking work. However, with this metal detector, you will know in an instant what’s down there. The Fisher Gold Bug Pro Metal Detector is equipped with computerized ground balancing and has simple controls that make finding prizes easier than ever before!

The Fisher Gold Bug Pro is a high-performing metal detector that can detect gold nuggets in highly mineralized soil. At only 2.5 lbs, this device is ultra-lightweight and easy to carry with you anywhere.

The Buyer’s Guide

Main Features:

1. Frequency

The first feature to look for when buying a metal detector is the frequency range. In the frequency range section, you need to consider how far away from a target your metal detector can detect. 

In this category, there are 3 types of detectors:

• single frequency (SF);
• multi-frequency (MF);
• very high frequency (VHF);

SF models have one specific operating frequency band that they monitor – these devices usually offer better depth capabilities but at the expense of poor discrimination abilities. 

MF models use multiple frequencies in order to increase performance – while these units feature good discrimination abilities compared with SF ones, their depth is not as effective as those found on VHF machines are. 

And, lastly, VHF systems cover a wide span of detection frequencies which allows them to find targets regardless of whether or not it’s near minerals or other objects. These models are the best metal detectors for coins, although they come at a higher price point than others.

Most detectors are between 20 and 100 kHz, but some can be as high as 110 or even 150 kHz.  A higher frequency range will pick up on low-value metals like aluminum, but it may not be able to detect iron or other high-value metals. If you are looking for a detector with the best depth, look for one with a lower kHz rating – it can go as low as 20 kHz.

The frequency range is important because it determines what kind of metal objects your device can find. Also, keep in mind that an electronic signal must bounce back at least two times before your machine receives and interprets it correctly—this means more expensive models have better detection capabilities due to their increased power output.

2. Type

There are 4 types of metal detectors for coins:

1) Handheld units (with or without headphones)

For many years, the standard for a coin detector was a handheld unit with headphones. This is because the earphones provide audio feedback so you can tell what metal objects are nearby. However, wand devices have become very popular over the last few years because they require less effort and digging time to find treasure. 

Another advantage of these models is that some allow you to set sensitivity levels based on your environment – which means more accurate results in areas with lots of trash or mineralization (i.e., ground composition). 

Another great feature found on modern metal detecting equipment is GPS tracking capabilities. These features work by using satellites to map out where all targets are located within a certain area. This is especially helpful for treasure hunters who are looking to get the most out of their detector investment, even if they aren’t actively searching at any given moment.

2) Wand/probe devices (with or without headphones)

For people on a budget, these models provide excellent value because you can find coins and other metal objects in your yard with ease – you will just need to dig them up yourself after finding the target location. 

These devices also offer one important advantage that handheld detectors don’t: depth capacity on larger holes. While some sites recommend buying both wand and probe device types, it might be more cost-effective to use them together instead since many of today’s metal detectors come with closeout features like pinpointing and target depth.

3) Metal detectors with headphones (wand or handheld)

These models are the most expensive types of metal detectors, but they offer some distinct advantages over other units. For example, when you’re in an area where there is a lot of trash (i.e., iron) it can be tough to tell what’s low value vs high-value metals like gold – a headphone model will help filter out that noise so you can hone in on valuable finds more easily. 

Another benefit is that these devices come equipped with features designed specifically for hunting coins at various depths -– features like adjustable frequency filtering and advanced ground balance give them a great headway against minerals like clay dirt which often causes false for manual probes without this feature.

4) Ground scanners

Ground scanners employ the use of ground rods that you drive into the ground to detect what’s below. This is especially helpful if you’re looking for something specific like Civil War relics or lost coins at a known location where they were dropped by accident. They also require more physical strength and endurance than other types because, as mentioned before, these units can be difficult to push through tough dirt/gravel conditions found in some environments.

The type of machine you choose will depend on your personal preferences and needs as a detectorist. If it’s your first time investing in this equipment, experts are going with a mid-range model from a reputable brand.

3. Ground Balance

If you are a new metal detectorist, the ground balance function of your device may be confusing. In short, this feature allows users to ignore mineralized soils and focus on finding coins instead. 

Metal detectors with automatic ground balancing usually have 4 settings: 

• Auto;
• Manual;
• Saltwater beach;
• Land or off;

If you want to find treasure in a specific environment (e.g., a farm), then choose an appropriate setting that works best for that place. Otherwise, leave the ground balance function on auto.

4. Power Source

This device can be powered by several sources, including batteries or electricity. Normally, people choose battery-powered devices because it does not limit them where they go since they are portable and versatile. 

On the other hand, some of these detectors run on electricity which means you don’t need a separate generator while using this particular equipment in your treasure-hunting activities if there’s no available electrical outlet nearby.

In terms of power source, this metal detector works on battery and electricity. The next common question you need to know before buying a particular product is about the type and size of batteries it uses. You don’t want your device shutting down in the middle of your treasure hunting activity because its batteries are drained out. 

Some models can use rechargeable lithium-ion or alkaline batteries that last longer than other types such as AAAA, C, D, or similar-sized dry cells that require more frequent swapping during long activities like treasure hunts.

5. Pinpointing

A pinpointer is a gadget that helps you focus on the precise location of a hit on your regular metal detector, whether it’s handheld or built into the device. They operate by linking the pitch or volume of a sound to the strength of the signal received by the pinpointer from an item.

There are many types of metal detectors, and they vary greatly in what kind of information you can get from them. Some offer just simple tones that indicate an object has been detected or not, while others provide detailed data about the target’s depth. 

If you’re looking for a unit to find coins at shallow depths in regular soil conditions with minimal interference then a basic tone-only model is going to be fine. However, if you want more advanced features such as LCD screen displays which allow customizing your search by giving depth readings on targets etc., look into models that have these capabilities instead.

6. Brand

While there are no specific standards for metal detectors, some brands of metal detector makers produce quality products. Detector companies like Garrett and Fisher make high-quality options, but other trusted names include Bounty Hunter, Teknetics, CScope, and White’s Electronics.

What to Look When Choosing the Best Metal Detector for Coins?

Metal detectors for coins come in a variety of forms and styles. Their features vary with the detector’s design, capabilities, performance-related attributes, and price range. When choosing a metal detector, it is important to consider your own needs first before getting into the technicalities involved in detecting metals underground.

Generally, coin collectors are only interested in finding coins at shallow depths. Coins can usually lie anywhere from just beneath the surface down to about two feet deep. Some detectors have an adjustable control feature allowing you to adjust it according to your desired depth level or ground conditions. 

It is important that when searching for metallic items such as lost jewelry and precious metals, professional metal detectors with advanced features should be considered since they would suit most outdoor exploration sites best due mainly because of their increased number of settings options with greater flexibility in detecting various objects under different ground conditions.

Metal detectors for coins can be used both on land and underwater, depending on the model and its features. Most models of metal detectors today are waterproof which allows you to use it for shallow water searches with just a snorkel mask or even deeper dives up to about 200 feet deep in saltwater oceans and lakes! 

Some advanced models also allow users to program audio tones that will distinguish between various objects such as gold nuggets versus iron targets found underground resulting in greater accuracy during treasure hunts. There are many types of common settings including coin hunting mode, jewelry-hunting mode, relic-hunting mode, custom user modes wherein each setting is designed according to specific needs using adjustable frequencies combined with other useful functions specifically suitable for the searching conditions.

You will need an entry-level machine in order to locate coins and other small targets with a size of about one inch or less (which includes all types of coins). If you want to search for larger objects such as rings or bracelets, then consider buying something more powerful from the mid-price range that has at least eight inches of coil diameter. 

The best metal detectors for beginners are models that feature both audio and visual target identification – these devices give instant feedback on what type of object is being searched by telling whether it’s ferrous or nonferrous material. This way even if you cannot identify what kind of metal is being searched, you are still able to know whether the target is worth digging or not.

How to Use Metal Detectors to Find Coins?

Metal detectors are very efficient for finding coins. Coins have a high metal content, so they can be easily detected with this equipment. 

However, there are some common mistakes that people make when using their metal detector to find coins: 

• You need to get used to your equipment and learn how it works properly. Once this is done (usually takes one or two days) you can start looking around for treasure;
• The best time for hunting is usually the early morning hours before sunrise; during these times temperatures stay low which means less ground moisture;
• Ground moisture interferes with the proper operation of most types of detectors, causing false signals called “ghost” responses among other things;
• Do not be misled by manufacturers who claim that their machine can locate coins up to 20 inches deep! This usually means it will only detect large metallic objects that have a minimum size of about two inches (such as car keys). Coins and other small targets are best located with detectors that feature an adjustable sensitivity setting;
• When searching around trashy areas full of iron junk remember this rule: “the more signals your detector makes, the deeper in the ground treasure lies!” Therefore, if you get too many false alerts just turn down the sensitivity until they disappear; then go back one step at a time increasing each time until you start getting some real responses again;
• To find coins and other small objects you’ll be better off choosing something lightweight which can easily fit into your backpack; this way it won’t slow you down while walking around on foot;
• The best place for beginners would park where there’s low grass and mostly dirt instead of sand (which makes detecting more difficult). If possible, bring somebody along who already knows how to use their equipment properly – not only he/she will teach you about basic detecting but also help carry all the equipment;

Metal Detector Useful Tips

1) Keep it simple

Metal detectors can be very complicated machines, and they’re certainly not inexpensive. If you choose a metal detector that is too complex for your needs, such as one with many bells and whistles, you may find yourself frustrated by the machine itself or disappointed in its performance. 

On the other hand, if you choose a model that doesn’t have enough functions to match your intended use of the equipment, then again you will probably be disappointed in the overall experience. 

When choosing any kind of device like this (even something as seemingly simple as an aquarium thermometer), make sure there’s at least some level of functionality that matches up with what you need from it before buying anything! 

A good rule of thumb is to choose a metal detector that has at least as many features as you’re willing to learn how to use. That way, it will be useful but not too complicated – and if the learning curve turns out to be steeper than expected, then you can always upgrade later without feeling like a large investment was a wasted one from the start.

2) Try before you buy

Find local dealers who let customers try their products in person beforehand – this almost always ensures greater satisfaction with what’s ordered! If your dealer doesn’t allow such behavior or offers little help when choosing which model would best fit your needs, find another dealer immediately! 

There are plenty of great businesses out there selling high quality; all it takes is some research and a bit of patience.

3) Beware the bells & whistles

Many metal detectors these days come with features that sound great but may not be useful in actual practice. For example, some machines have an “all ground” setting which automatically ignores most types of interference (i.e., mineral content), whereas others offer pinpointing technologies like “Pinpoint Mode” or “Smart Notch”. Such tools are definitely interesting to play around with. 

However, they can also end up costing you time if used incorrectly – so consider everything before deciding whether such helpful additions would really benefit your needs as opposed to just adding another level of confusion! 

4) Don’t forget the headphones! 

Many models come with both visual and audio indicators to help you track down your buried treasure. But, if they aren’t paired with a good set of listening devices (i.e., headphones) then all these features are essentially useless since there’s no way for you to pick up on this information once it is given off by the detector itself. 

Be sure that whatever model you choose includes some kind of earphones or speakers before assuming that such functionality will be included in purchase – otherwise, they may end up being an unnecessary expenditure later on when it turns out that sound alerts can only be heard through auxiliary sources like those instead.

5) Penny-sized targets should be detected on all sides 

Do this by swinging or sweeping slowly back and forth across them horizontally while holding your hands out to either side in front of you. If they still don’t show up on the meter then move down about two inches until they do, but try not to get too close because most gold items will always read high if held next to any kind of containers like pants pockets or shirt buttonholes where their other metals nearby influencing its reading. If you get a good signal and the meter reads over 35, then it’s usually gold.

6) Operate in a slow way when searching for larger coins

You should also sweep slowly up and down while holding out your hands to either side for larger items like silver coins. It will show up on all sides at once when held directly above them with arms fully extended parallel to the ground while keeping both feet firmly planted on solid ground so that they do not sway back and forth affecting its reading. 

These are just some general guidelines but every detector is different so be sure to thoroughly read through any instructions included before use as well as consult more experienced people for further advice.

FAQ

Do metal detectors work on coins?

The simple answer is yes, but it depends on the type of coin you want to search for. An average metal detector will work just fine with modern-day currency such as pennies, nickels, and dimes. As long as your device has discrimination features that allow you to separate ferrous metals from non-ferrous ones (i.e., copper), then finding these kinds of coins becomes easy enough even without pinpointing their locations precisely. 

However, metal detectors will not work as well with older coins such as those made of silver and gold. 

The reason is simple: the conductivity levels between these metals are very different from that of copper-based currency so their frequencies do not correspond to each other. 

If you want to find old money or treasure chests containing rare artifacts, then it’s best to use an advanced device like a multi-purpose metal detector which has more features than just discrimination settings for standard types of coinage.

Do all metal detectors detect coins?

No, not all metal detectors are designed for coins. The best metal detector will be able to detect minute details in both the size and shape of a coin.  

Can you find gold coins with a metal detector?

Yes, you can! Using the right metal detector for coins, it is possible to find gold coins. There are even special types of detectors that focus on finding gold rather than other metals.

What is the deepest metal detector for coins?

The DeepHunter 3D, for example, has cavity detection, which is the capability to detect voids and cavities in the ground where deposits may be found. While a metal detector can’t discern precious metals or raw minerals, it might be able to lead you to their hiding places.

Its detailed graphical display shows real-time data for huge items at significant depths. It breaks down each part into Cavity, Metal, Ferrous, and Precious Metal. The DeepHunter employs two frequencies: 12.5 kHz and 17.5 kHz that can only be used individually.

What frequency is best for coin detectors?

The frequency of most metal detectors is adjustable. However, the lower frequencies are typically better for smaller items like coins and relics, while higher frequencies work well on larger targets such as gold nuggets or silver jewelry.

Where are the best places to metal detect?

Metal detecting is a great hobby to pick up. There are many places where metal detectors can be used, but some of the best include beaches, parks, and wooded areas.  This is because metal detectors are excellent for finding small, valuable items. If you’re searching in particular for coins and other metallic objects, these places will give you the best chance of success.

It’s important to remember that while some parks or beaches may permit people with metal detectors to search them on certain days of the week or at specific times, others don’t allow this activity at all. Therefore, it’s essential to check before heading out!

Where are the best places to metal detect old coins?

The best place to metal detect old coins is in your own backyard. The older the coin, the deeper it’s buried! If you don’t have a yard (or even if you do) find somebody who does and ask for permission before starting any kind of treasure hunt. 

Also, look for public parks and ask the local authorities if it’s okay to metal detect at these locations (they might not know about this hobby). Municipal buildings such as libraries or recreation centers can also have hidden treasures just waiting! 

Another good place to metal detect old coins is at historic sites, especially if they have some kind of museum. Be sure you get permission first! 

Just about any other public park or building is a great spot for finding older coins with your metal detector, so keep an eye on the local news and community events calendar. You never know where there might be something hidden that will bring out everyone’s inner treasure hunter!

What coin is worth a lot of money?

1794 Flowing Hair Silver Dollar is the most valuable coin in history, according to some experts. One coin was sold at auction for over $10 million in 2013.

How do you know if your coin is worth money?

The best metal detectors for coins will be able to tell you if your coin is worth money or not. However, it may take some research on your part in order to determine the value of a particular type of coin. It’s always good practice to do as much research as possible before investing any large amount into purchasing an expensive piece of equipment.  

A coin is only considered to be valuable if it is made of gold or silver. The most profitable coins are those that contain at least 90% pure metal, but the base value of a coin increases with an increase in purity. If you do not wish to learn about metals and alloys, then there are many apps available for your smartphone which will help you identify what kinds of metals appear on different types of coins.

What is the rarest fifty pence piece?

The rarest fifty pence piece is the Kew Gardens coin. Only 210,000 coins were minted in 2008 and they can sell for more than £60 each.

How much is a 1776 to 1976 quarter worth?

The face value of a standard 1776-1976 clad quarter in the circulated condition is just $0.25. These coins are only worth more in uncirculated form. The 1776-1976 S proof quarter is worth around $5 in PR 65 condition.

What coins are collectors looking for?

In the coin-collecting hobby, it is common for one to search for coins from specific dates. These include:

• Morgan silver dollars (1878 – 1921);
• Saint Gaudens double eagle gold coins ($20 denomination; 1907 – 1931); 
• Standing Liberty quarter with a “lesser” reverse design (1916 – 1930);

If you’re going metal detecting and you find any of these three U.S. coins, consider yourself lucky! You just got your hands on some rare treasure that could be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars depending on its condition. Another thing collectors look out for is proof sets which were made in short supply during their release year so there aren’t many left around today.

Useful Video: Bounty Hunter Tracker IV Review Demonstration and How To Operate

Final thoughts 

The best metal detector for coins is the one that will work well with your budget and finding what you are looking for. With so many options on the market, it can be difficult to decide which metal detector is best for you. Hopefully, this guide has been helpful in guiding you to the best metal detector for your needs. Remember, there are no one-size-fits-all solutions and different types of coins require different detectors.