Favorite Finds - U.S.
APRIL 2017 HAS THREE WINNERS!!!
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WINNER #1
My U.S. favorite find for April 2017 is the Diamond Wedding Ring, found by Michael D. from California with his AT Pro.
Michael’s story: Ever since I was kid, I have always been intrigued watching people use metal detectors, and would ask what treasures they were finding. Recently I had the opportunity to purchase a Garrett AT Pro for myself. The dealer, Jerry, is a member of our RV Club. Jerry took me to a park by his house to show me how the Garrett works, and give me some pointers. He went to the park before me and planted coins for me to find. I was having a great time finding the coins and hearing the different sounds and readings the Garrett made. At one point, the Garrett hit on a 56. Jerry claimed he did not plant anything there and suggested I dig it out to see what it was. To my surprise it was a diamond wedding ring. We were both flabbergasted. I had only been detecting for 20 minutes and had already found my first ring. I must admit I am hook. Even if I never find another ring, I enjoy being outside getting exercise. I must add, my wife is happy with the find also, she now wears the ring.
Michael D. WINS a Garrett Z-Lynk™ Wireless System!
Michael’s story: Ever since I was kid, I have always been intrigued watching people use metal detectors, and would ask what treasures they were finding. Recently I had the opportunity to purchase a Garrett AT Pro for myself. The dealer, Jerry, is a member of our RV Club. Jerry took me to a park by his house to show me how the Garrett works, and give me some pointers. He went to the park before me and planted coins for me to find. I was having a great time finding the coins and hearing the different sounds and readings the Garrett made. At one point, the Garrett hit on a 56. Jerry claimed he did not plant anything there and suggested I dig it out to see what it was. To my surprise it was a diamond wedding ring. We were both flabbergasted. I had only been detecting for 20 minutes and had already found my first ring. I must admit I am hook. Even if I never find another ring, I enjoy being outside getting exercise. I must add, my wife is happy with the find also, she now wears the ring.
Michael D. WINS a Garrett Z-Lynk™ Wireless System!
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WINNER #2
My second U.S. favorite find for April 2017 is the 1860’s Black Power Flask, found by Neil C. from Michigan with his AT Pro.
Neil’s story: Went out hunting on April 2 2017 weather was nice, so it was the second hunt of the new year. I was just out hunting around my house and next door at the gas station. Hunted it a lot before so was not expecting much. Got a good penny signal, and dug a black power flask! It was crushed and folded in half. Never thought I would ever dig one of those, never seen any one dig one for that matter and I watch a lot of you tube metal detecting videos. I knew what I had and I knew what it was, I just did not know how old it was. After doing a lot of research I found one exactly like it and was totally surprise. It was made by C&JW Hawsley of Sheffield England 1860, one of my best fines ever, even if is not all there. I bent it back the best I could and cleaned it up. Now it will go in to a shadow box for display. I think this is a very cool piece.
Neil C. WINS a Garrett Z-Lynk™ Wireless System!
Neil’s story: Went out hunting on April 2 2017 weather was nice, so it was the second hunt of the new year. I was just out hunting around my house and next door at the gas station. Hunted it a lot before so was not expecting much. Got a good penny signal, and dug a black power flask! It was crushed and folded in half. Never thought I would ever dig one of those, never seen any one dig one for that matter and I watch a lot of you tube metal detecting videos. I knew what I had and I knew what it was, I just did not know how old it was. After doing a lot of research I found one exactly like it and was totally surprise. It was made by C&JW Hawsley of Sheffield England 1860, one of my best fines ever, even if is not all there. I bent it back the best I could and cleaned it up. Now it will go in to a shadow box for display. I think this is a very cool piece.
Neil C. WINS a Garrett Z-Lynk™ Wireless System!
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WINNER #3
My third U.S. favorite find for April 2017 is Mrs. Garrett, found by Matt B. and his son Brody from Louisiana.
Matt’s story (edited): My son Brody and I got the opportunity to participate in the Charles Garrett Memorial Hunt in early April. Our birthdays are only a couple weeks apart, so this was a present for both of us. Saturday evening was the night hunt and we cleaned up pretty good on some dollars, half dollars, a few left over civil war bullets from the relic hunt, some wheat pennies and two indian head pennies. We were both pretty stoked that we did so well! After the hunt, we found a table to sit at and began looking through our finds. We didn’t realize it at first, but we had sat down right across the table from Mrs. Garrett! I introduced myself and then Brody. Mrs. Garrett was just beaming watching Brody go crazy over his finds. We had the privilege to talk with her for a bit and really enjoyed it! She was one of the sweetest ladies I’ve ever met. She must have kissed Brody’s forehead a dozen times and he was eating it up!
I didn’t have the opportunity to meet Mr. Vaughan, but I just want to say more than anything else, you have a customer for life. I LOVE that the first thing Mr. Vaughan said when he took the stage was, “thank God for this beautiful day.” And when Adam said the prayer, he was not ashamed to lay out the Gospel message and pray in Jesus’ Name. MAN! What a breath of fresh air in this day and age! GOD BLESS YA’LL for realizing where the real treasure lies. The joy of the Lord was all over Mrs. Garrett as I got to sit back and watch her and my son interact. THAT was my greatest find of the hunt. What a blessing that weekend was. We both had an incredible time and can’t wait till next year. I’m proud of ya’ll for your commitment to keep God first in your business and I’m proud to be using your products. Thanks SO much and God bless!!!
Matt B. WINS a Garrett Z-Lynk™ Wireless System!
Matt’s story (edited): My son Brody and I got the opportunity to participate in the Charles Garrett Memorial Hunt in early April. Our birthdays are only a couple weeks apart, so this was a present for both of us. Saturday evening was the night hunt and we cleaned up pretty good on some dollars, half dollars, a few left over civil war bullets from the relic hunt, some wheat pennies and two indian head pennies. We were both pretty stoked that we did so well! After the hunt, we found a table to sit at and began looking through our finds. We didn’t realize it at first, but we had sat down right across the table from Mrs. Garrett! I introduced myself and then Brody. Mrs. Garrett was just beaming watching Brody go crazy over his finds. We had the privilege to talk with her for a bit and really enjoyed it! She was one of the sweetest ladies I’ve ever met. She must have kissed Brody’s forehead a dozen times and he was eating it up!
I didn’t have the opportunity to meet Mr. Vaughan, but I just want to say more than anything else, you have a customer for life. I LOVE that the first thing Mr. Vaughan said when he took the stage was, “thank God for this beautiful day.” And when Adam said the prayer, he was not ashamed to lay out the Gospel message and pray in Jesus’ Name. MAN! What a breath of fresh air in this day and age! GOD BLESS YA’LL for realizing where the real treasure lies. The joy of the Lord was all over Mrs. Garrett as I got to sit back and watch her and my son interact. THAT was my greatest find of the hunt. What a blessing that weekend was. We both had an incredible time and can’t wait till next year. I’m proud of ya’ll for your commitment to keep God first in your business and I’m proud to be using your products. Thanks SO much and God bless!!!
Matt B. WINS a Garrett Z-Lynk™ Wireless System!
MARCH 2017 HAS THREE WINNERS!!!
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WINNER #1
My U.S. favorite find for March 2017 is the Cache of 48 World War One buttons and 11 Insignias, found by Stone K. from Alabama with his friend’s AT Pro.
“Hello. My name is Stone K. I’m a relic hunter with DownSouth Diggers and I’m out of Spanish Fort Alabama. Today I found an incredible cache of 48 World War One buttons and 11 insignias. We took a live dig video and we’ll be uploading it to YouTube as soon as it’s edited. I found the cache with my friend’s AT Pro and in the video I mention that it is my first time using the AT Pro and Pro-Pointer and how impressed I am with its performance. I am being truthful in saying how impressed I am with your products.”
Stone K. WINS a Pro-Pointer AT!!!
“Hello. My name is Stone K. I’m a relic hunter with DownSouth Diggers and I’m out of Spanish Fort Alabama. Today I found an incredible cache of 48 World War One buttons and 11 insignias. We took a live dig video and we’ll be uploading it to YouTube as soon as it’s edited. I found the cache with my friend’s AT Pro and in the video I mention that it is my first time using the AT Pro and Pro-Pointer and how impressed I am with its performance. I am being truthful in saying how impressed I am with your products.”
Stone K. WINS a Pro-Pointer AT!!!
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WINNER #2
My second U.S. favorite find for March 2017 is the Civil War Dog Tag, found by Bob C. from Pittsburgh, PA with the AT Pro.
“I decided to go digging at lunch time today and went to one of our local parks that was opened in 1914. Pulled many silver coins and cool relics from this park but never a civil war dog tag!
I had a good signal and was thinking half dollar. Dug the hole and out pops a big disc. Being the curious person I am I started cleaning it in the field. Was confused when I saw 1861 and a shield. I didn’t know what it was so immediately started looking online. I first thought it was a civil war token but noticed some writing on the back. I then found it was a civil war dog tag. How the heck did that end up in this park? I am still in the cleaning stage but it’s coming along nicely. It’s in really good shape and just some peroxide made a lot of the original brass color show up. It just amazes me the history behind this.
The back says Caleb R Foster CO. B, 13 reg, PA Vol Temperanceville. I found that Caleb R Foster was in the 102 regiment Pennsylvania infantry company B. He was wounded at Wilderness, VA. He mustered out with his company on June 28, 1865. He died at 78 from pneumonia and he is buried in Chartiers Cemetery.
I have started looking at values and looks like at auction it could go from $1750 to $2200. Wow I am still shaking and this is definitely my best find ever its gonna be hard to top this one!!!”
Bob C. WINS a Pro-Pointer AT!
“I decided to go digging at lunch time today and went to one of our local parks that was opened in 1914. Pulled many silver coins and cool relics from this park but never a civil war dog tag!
I had a good signal and was thinking half dollar. Dug the hole and out pops a big disc. Being the curious person I am I started cleaning it in the field. Was confused when I saw 1861 and a shield. I didn’t know what it was so immediately started looking online. I first thought it was a civil war token but noticed some writing on the back. I then found it was a civil war dog tag. How the heck did that end up in this park? I am still in the cleaning stage but it’s coming along nicely. It’s in really good shape and just some peroxide made a lot of the original brass color show up. It just amazes me the history behind this.
The back says Caleb R Foster CO. B, 13 reg, PA Vol Temperanceville. I found that Caleb R Foster was in the 102 regiment Pennsylvania infantry company B. He was wounded at Wilderness, VA. He mustered out with his company on June 28, 1865. He died at 78 from pneumonia and he is buried in Chartiers Cemetery.
I have started looking at values and looks like at auction it could go from $1750 to $2200. Wow I am still shaking and this is definitely my best find ever its gonna be hard to top this one!!!”
Bob C. WINS a Pro-Pointer AT!
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WINNER #3
My third U.S. favorite find for March 2017 is the 1917 Mercury dime, found by Alton D. from Missouri, with his AT Pro.
“After the start of 2017 my 12 yr old son Alton and I upgraded our 20 year old detector to a new AT PRO. First trip out in the woods next to our house produced 4 coins and 1 token and our first silver! (The most coins we had prior to this in 1 day was 2.) We just set it in PRO coins, tested it on a couple of coins, and a bottle cap and were on are way. Since that first trip we have been out many times and found more coins. However our most rewarding find came after school one day when my son found a 1917 mercury dime by himself while I was feeding our cows. What makes this find so rewarding is that his great grandmother just turned 100 yrs old this month (March 11) and we had been talking about how nice it would be if we could find a coin from the year she was born and give it to her on her birthday.”
Alton D. WINS a Pro-Pointer AT!!!
“After the start of 2017 my 12 yr old son Alton and I upgraded our 20 year old detector to a new AT PRO. First trip out in the woods next to our house produced 4 coins and 1 token and our first silver! (The most coins we had prior to this in 1 day was 2.) We just set it in PRO coins, tested it on a couple of coins, and a bottle cap and were on are way. Since that first trip we have been out many times and found more coins. However our most rewarding find came after school one day when my son found a 1917 mercury dime by himself while I was feeding our cows. What makes this find so rewarding is that his great grandmother just turned 100 yrs old this month (March 11) and we had been talking about how nice it would be if we could find a coin from the year she was born and give it to her on her birthday.”
Alton D. WINS a Pro-Pointer AT!!!
February 2017 has Two Winners!
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WINNER #1
My U.S. favorite find is the 1881 Ten dollar gold piece, found by John W. from Indiana with his AT Pro.
John’s story: I had purchased my AT PRO a few years ago. After owning a Treasure Ace 350 for many years. I had found some nice things with my Ace. But, needed to up grade. After I got my AT PRO, I went back over places I had been with my Ace. And started to find more coins. One day I decided to hit a few old homesteads through permission. I got to my first place. It yielded a beat up Indiana head penny, then a super nice 1891 Seated Liberty half dime.
So I left for my next spot. I dug up a well used Indian Head. Date was gone. Kept swinging. A two cent piece, my first ever, but couldn’t make out the date. Kept swinging. Then a signal that never wavered from 70. Went back over it, 70 70. Being new to the AT PRO. I figured it was a penny. Dug a 6" deep plug. Pulled out my pinpointer. Located it, moved the dirt around and saw a gold stripe with dirt on each side. I was thinking a token. But to my surprise. I was holding a gold coin in my hand. I knew exactly what I was holding the moment the dirt fell off. After a moment of hysteria and “I CAN’T BELIEVE IT” I was on the phone with my brothers and a buddy rubbing it in.
John W. WINS a Pro-Pointer AT!
John’s story: I had purchased my AT PRO a few years ago. After owning a Treasure Ace 350 for many years. I had found some nice things with my Ace. But, needed to up grade. After I got my AT PRO, I went back over places I had been with my Ace. And started to find more coins. One day I decided to hit a few old homesteads through permission. I got to my first place. It yielded a beat up Indiana head penny, then a super nice 1891 Seated Liberty half dime.
So I left for my next spot. I dug up a well used Indian Head. Date was gone. Kept swinging. A two cent piece, my first ever, but couldn’t make out the date. Kept swinging. Then a signal that never wavered from 70. Went back over it, 70 70. Being new to the AT PRO. I figured it was a penny. Dug a 6" deep plug. Pulled out my pinpointer. Located it, moved the dirt around and saw a gold stripe with dirt on each side. I was thinking a token. But to my surprise. I was holding a gold coin in my hand. I knew exactly what I was holding the moment the dirt fell off. After a moment of hysteria and “I CAN’T BELIEVE IT” I was on the phone with my brothers and a buddy rubbing it in.
John W. WINS a Pro-Pointer AT!
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WINNER #2
My second U.S. favorite find is the Washington centennial pin, found by Kurt W. from Pennsylvania with his AT Pro.
Kurt’s story: Metal detecting along a old under a row of pine trees I find my best find at six inches my best find to date a picture of George Washington. It’s a porcelain insert with Washington, flag with 13 stars, and a eagle. I am fourteen been metal detecting two years found a Spanish silver and many King George coins, musket balls, but nothing will compare this maybe my best find ever. Facebook groups I belong to never seen one like it, I pretty sure the dry ground under the pine trees saved it.
Kurt W. WINS a Pro-Pointer AT!
Kurt’s story: Metal detecting along a old under a row of pine trees I find my best find at six inches my best find to date a picture of George Washington. It’s a porcelain insert with Washington, flag with 13 stars, and a eagle. I am fourteen been metal detecting two years found a Spanish silver and many King George coins, musket balls, but nothing will compare this maybe my best find ever. Facebook groups I belong to never seen one like it, I pretty sure the dry ground under the pine trees saved it.
Kurt W. WINS a Pro-Pointer AT!
JANUARY 2017 HAS THREE WINNERS!!!
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WINNER #1
My U.S. favorite find for January 2017 is the 1857 $5 Gold Coin, found by Ryan W. from Oregon with his AT Pro.
Ryan’s story (edited): First of all I would like to say your AT Pro is the best investment I have ever made. Since I first watched Diggers just over three years ago, I was hooked, and have dedicated my life to finding treasure. I have found numerous amounts of gold, silver, and rare relics. Last year while I was hunting I noticed the city was tearing up a main road in the next city down from me. I worked the ground there for a few weeks straight. Everyday I was finding rare old coins and relics dating back as far as the early 1800’s. Every person walking by asked me what I was doing and what I had found. I stared my stories with over 100 different people and everyone was very intrigued. Then about my second week working the street up came an 1857 $5 GOLD COIN! I immediately jumped up and yelled I DID IT!!! People around me were looking at me very strange.
So a few weeks later one of my neighbors who works for the Signal in Seaside Oregon and also the Daily Astorian asked if he could interview me. I honestly didn’t think anything of it until about a week later I was going to get some coffee from the local store. To my surprise I was on the front cover of the Newspaper stand directly in front of my vehicle. I couldn’t believe it. Of course I bought 10 copies. Since then I have had numerous people come up to me and say, “ Hey aren’t you the guy that found that gold coin?” So to you guys at Garrett Metal Detectors I wanted to share this with you. I will always hunt with your products and have complete faith in your detectors!
Ryan W. WINS a Pro-Pointer AT!
Ryan’s story (edited): First of all I would like to say your AT Pro is the best investment I have ever made. Since I first watched Diggers just over three years ago, I was hooked, and have dedicated my life to finding treasure. I have found numerous amounts of gold, silver, and rare relics. Last year while I was hunting I noticed the city was tearing up a main road in the next city down from me. I worked the ground there for a few weeks straight. Everyday I was finding rare old coins and relics dating back as far as the early 1800’s. Every person walking by asked me what I was doing and what I had found. I stared my stories with over 100 different people and everyone was very intrigued. Then about my second week working the street up came an 1857 $5 GOLD COIN! I immediately jumped up and yelled I DID IT!!! People around me were looking at me very strange.
So a few weeks later one of my neighbors who works for the Signal in Seaside Oregon and also the Daily Astorian asked if he could interview me. I honestly didn’t think anything of it until about a week later I was going to get some coffee from the local store. To my surprise I was on the front cover of the Newspaper stand directly in front of my vehicle. I couldn’t believe it. Of course I bought 10 copies. Since then I have had numerous people come up to me and say, “ Hey aren’t you the guy that found that gold coin?” So to you guys at Garrett Metal Detectors I wanted to share this with you. I will always hunt with your products and have complete faith in your detectors!
Ryan W. WINS a Pro-Pointer AT!
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WINNER #2
My second U.S. favorite find for January 2017 is the Rare Civil War Missouri State Guard Button, found by Chris H. from Missouri, with his AT Pro.
Chris’s story: I dug this coat button near a known campsite here in Missouri. Early in the war, May 1861, Missouri Governor Claiborne Fox Jackson appointed General Sterling Price to head the Missouri State Guard. Jackson and Price sided with the secessionists, and Price, “Old Pap” as his recruits called him, led the Missouri State Guard in a campaign to retain Missouri for the Confederacy. I had dug several bullets, small buckles, and pieces of lead at this site, and the signals were questionable due to all the iron. So I set my AT Pro up with Iron Discrimination at 26 and left the Sensitivity at full. This gave a bouncy 35-60 signal so I had to dig it. I couldn’t believe it! This is a RARE button! Last year I dug a Missouri State Guard cuff button last year and considered it a find of a lifetime - but now THIS!! A Missouri State Guard Coat Button! LOVE MY AT PRO!
Chris H. WINS a Pro-Pointer AT!
Chris’s story: I dug this coat button near a known campsite here in Missouri. Early in the war, May 1861, Missouri Governor Claiborne Fox Jackson appointed General Sterling Price to head the Missouri State Guard. Jackson and Price sided with the secessionists, and Price, “Old Pap” as his recruits called him, led the Missouri State Guard in a campaign to retain Missouri for the Confederacy. I had dug several bullets, small buckles, and pieces of lead at this site, and the signals were questionable due to all the iron. So I set my AT Pro up with Iron Discrimination at 26 and left the Sensitivity at full. This gave a bouncy 35-60 signal so I had to dig it. I couldn’t believe it! This is a RARE button! Last year I dug a Missouri State Guard cuff button last year and considered it a find of a lifetime - but now THIS!! A Missouri State Guard Coat Button! LOVE MY AT PRO!
Chris H. WINS a Pro-Pointer AT!
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WINNER #3
My third U.S. favorite find for January 2017 is the Rifleman’s Button from The War of 1812, found by Brad H. from New York with his Treasure Hunter BFO.
Brad’s story (edited): First, I’ll give you a little history of where I live. I live in the very center of a small town in upstate New York that dates back to the Revolutionary War period. We were told by a local historian that our house was built in the late 1700s or very early 1800s, and our small barn housed the original town blacksmith shop. Needless to say, our entire property is completely riddled with small bits of iron and square nails from over 200 years of use.
With my BFO, in my iron-riddled yard alone, I’ve found many wheats, Indian Heads, old buttons, and even a 1786 Rupert Penny, minted in Rupert, Vermont. This Spring I purchased a new AT PRO; what an incredible detector, it’s by far the best detector I’ve EVER owned, and I’ve owned over three dozen, and currently own over a dozen. I’ll have to say this though, my old Garret BFO, even though it’s about forty years old, still ranks in the top three, because of it’s amazing ability to completely ignore small iron even with the discrimination turned completely off. Recently I decided to take out my old BFO, because I still really enjoy using it, and I was quite shocked to dig up this Rifleman’s Button from the War of 1812. What a great find, even for a new detector, let alone forty year old Garrett technology. I’ll end my story on this note, I doubt that I’ll EVER part with either of my two favorite Garrett’s, either my AT PRO, or my Treasure Hunter BFO.
Brad H. WINS a Pro-Pointer AT!
Brad’s story (edited): First, I’ll give you a little history of where I live. I live in the very center of a small town in upstate New York that dates back to the Revolutionary War period. We were told by a local historian that our house was built in the late 1700s or very early 1800s, and our small barn housed the original town blacksmith shop. Needless to say, our entire property is completely riddled with small bits of iron and square nails from over 200 years of use.
With my BFO, in my iron-riddled yard alone, I’ve found many wheats, Indian Heads, old buttons, and even a 1786 Rupert Penny, minted in Rupert, Vermont. This Spring I purchased a new AT PRO; what an incredible detector, it’s by far the best detector I’ve EVER owned, and I’ve owned over three dozen, and currently own over a dozen. I’ll have to say this though, my old Garret BFO, even though it’s about forty years old, still ranks in the top three, because of it’s amazing ability to completely ignore small iron even with the discrimination turned completely off. Recently I decided to take out my old BFO, because I still really enjoy using it, and I was quite shocked to dig up this Rifleman’s Button from the War of 1812. What a great find, even for a new detector, let alone forty year old Garrett technology. I’ll end my story on this note, I doubt that I’ll EVER part with either of my two favorite Garrett’s, either my AT PRO, or my Treasure Hunter BFO.
Brad H. WINS a Pro-Pointer AT!
DECEMBER 2016 HAS FIVE WINNERS!
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WINNER #1
My U.S. favorite find for December 2016 is the 1916 14K Gold Greenville Woman’s College Ring, found by Chad G. from South Carolina with his AT Pro.
Chad’s story: My friend Carter received permission to detect at an old community in the upstate of South Carolina. The community has a small lake where people use to swim. The lake had been drained and there were tracks in the bottom of the lake, like they had moved some of the dirt around. I was detecting along side the long narrow dock when I got a real solid 58 signal in one of the tracks made by a tractor. The depth showed to be only 2 inches deep so I didn’t even use the shovel. I scooped a handful of mud out of the way and saw the edge of the ring, I dusted a little more mud off and took a picture before removing it from the hole, I pulled it and took a second picture then I went to the truck to wash it off and see what I had. The ring said Greenville Woman’s college 1854, it has 19 on one side and 16 on the other, it also has a name on the inside of the ring.
We were able to track down the woman’s daughter that is now 79 year old and the woman grandson that is 67. We have already scheduled a time and place to return the ring. When I talked to the daughter she told me that her mom was 40 when she was born, she had been given the ring when she was 16 and lost it while at the community for the weekend. She was so grateful that I found the ring, and that I was going to return it, and she started to cry while she was thanking me.
Chad G. WINS a Pro-Pointer AT!
Chad’s story: My friend Carter received permission to detect at an old community in the upstate of South Carolina. The community has a small lake where people use to swim. The lake had been drained and there were tracks in the bottom of the lake, like they had moved some of the dirt around. I was detecting along side the long narrow dock when I got a real solid 58 signal in one of the tracks made by a tractor. The depth showed to be only 2 inches deep so I didn’t even use the shovel. I scooped a handful of mud out of the way and saw the edge of the ring, I dusted a little more mud off and took a picture before removing it from the hole, I pulled it and took a second picture then I went to the truck to wash it off and see what I had. The ring said Greenville Woman’s college 1854, it has 19 on one side and 16 on the other, it also has a name on the inside of the ring.
We were able to track down the woman’s daughter that is now 79 year old and the woman grandson that is 67. We have already scheduled a time and place to return the ring. When I talked to the daughter she told me that her mom was 40 when she was born, she had been given the ring when she was 16 and lost it while at the community for the weekend. She was so grateful that I found the ring, and that I was going to return it, and she started to cry while she was thanking me.
Chad G. WINS a Pro-Pointer AT!
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WINNER #2
My second U.S. favorite find for December 2016 is the 1820’s to 1840’s New York Militia Belt Plate, found by Dennis H. from Maine with his ACE 400.
Dennis’s story: The ACE 400 is magic!!! I just bought the ACE 400 and started using it right outside my door. And I went off I thought I had to to "tune" it or something? Anyway I dug up a 1998 penny, not worth anything but literally never even waived the ACE 400. It was a good sign. I live on an old farmhouse site and checked around. My hand dug well and found this buckle. I have not owned this ACE 400 for more than an hour and BAM. I think I am hooked. Can you imagine a better start to a new hobby?
Dennis H. WINS a Pro-Pointer AT!
Dennis’s story: The ACE 400 is magic!!! I just bought the ACE 400 and started using it right outside my door. And I went off I thought I had to to "tune" it or something? Anyway I dug up a 1998 penny, not worth anything but literally never even waived the ACE 400. It was a good sign. I live on an old farmhouse site and checked around. My hand dug well and found this buckle. I have not owned this ACE 400 for more than an hour and BAM. I think I am hooked. Can you imagine a better start to a new hobby?
Dennis H. WINS a Pro-Pointer AT!
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WINNER #3
My third U.S. favorite find for December 2016 is the 1787 Fugio One Cent Coin, found by Don B. from Connecticut with his AT Gold.
Don’s story: I am really loving my Garrett AT Gold. It is one of the best detectors you can own if you are searching around old colonial cellar holes. When you identify a target and zero in on it the iron in the background fades away and you hear your target clearly. I hunt with iron audio turned on and this detector finds the goodies.
In early December at a colonial cellar hole in Connecticut I found my dream coin, a 1787 Fugio One Cent coin! Thank you Garrett for making the detector that made it possible for me to find this outstanding coin.
The following is some information taken from the internet regarding the Fugio Coppers: The Fugio Cent is the first official one-cent piece of United States currency, consisting of 0.36 oz of copper. On April 21, 1787, the Congress of the Confederation of the United States authorized a design for an official copper penny, later referred to as the Fugio cent because of its image of the sun shining down on a sundial with the caption, “Fugio” (Latin: I flee/fly). This coin was reportedly designed by Benjamin Franklin; as a reminder to its holders, he put at its bottom the message, “Mind Your Business.” The image and the words form a rebus meaning that “time flies, do your work.” Given Franklin’s history publishing aphorisms, it may have been intended to mean both monetary and social business. The 1787 coins, bore the third motto “We Are One” surrounded by thirteen chain links, representing the original thirteen colonial states.
Don B. WINS a Pro-Pointer AT!
Don’s story: I am really loving my Garrett AT Gold. It is one of the best detectors you can own if you are searching around old colonial cellar holes. When you identify a target and zero in on it the iron in the background fades away and you hear your target clearly. I hunt with iron audio turned on and this detector finds the goodies.
In early December at a colonial cellar hole in Connecticut I found my dream coin, a 1787 Fugio One Cent coin! Thank you Garrett for making the detector that made it possible for me to find this outstanding coin.
The following is some information taken from the internet regarding the Fugio Coppers: The Fugio Cent is the first official one-cent piece of United States currency, consisting of 0.36 oz of copper. On April 21, 1787, the Congress of the Confederation of the United States authorized a design for an official copper penny, later referred to as the Fugio cent because of its image of the sun shining down on a sundial with the caption, “Fugio” (Latin: I flee/fly). This coin was reportedly designed by Benjamin Franklin; as a reminder to its holders, he put at its bottom the message, “Mind Your Business.” The image and the words form a rebus meaning that “time flies, do your work.” Given Franklin’s history publishing aphorisms, it may have been intended to mean both monetary and social business. The 1787 coins, bore the third motto “We Are One” surrounded by thirteen chain links, representing the original thirteen colonial states.
Don B. WINS a Pro-Pointer AT!
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WINNER #4
My fourth U.S. favorite find for December 2016 is the 1787 New Jersey Colonial Copper Coin, found by Eric S. from New Jersey with his ACE 400.
Eric’s story: On November 16th, I decided to hit a local northern New Jersey cellar hole dating to the mid 1700s that I have been hunting for about two years. It’s loaded with trash and iron and the finds are hard to come by, but usually worth the wait. I’ve been experimenting with running the iron audio on and isolating high tones among the constant iron chatter, which has worked out really well. I took about ten steps off the road towards the cellar hole and got a perfect 84-85 signal. I assumed it was a big piece of iron because of how it rang up but decided to dig it as I’ve been trying to clean the area up anyway. I dug a plug in the loose black dirt and stuck the pro pointer in to locate the target. It was right at the bottom of the hole. I scooped a handful of dirt out, and to my surprise, a large green coin came with it! I initially thought it had to be a large cent, which would have been exciting enough for that location. I noticed it was a little larger than a large cent, which confused me at first. I picked up the coin and with one swipe instantly knew it was a New Jersey colonial copper! This is my oldest coin to date and certainly lends credence to the age of the cellar hole. Being a New Jersey native and hunting a local site made it even sweeter, and my most prized find yet. The ACE 400 is definitely a winner for me!
Eric S. WINS a Pro-Pointer AT!
Eric’s story: On November 16th, I decided to hit a local northern New Jersey cellar hole dating to the mid 1700s that I have been hunting for about two years. It’s loaded with trash and iron and the finds are hard to come by, but usually worth the wait. I’ve been experimenting with running the iron audio on and isolating high tones among the constant iron chatter, which has worked out really well. I took about ten steps off the road towards the cellar hole and got a perfect 84-85 signal. I assumed it was a big piece of iron because of how it rang up but decided to dig it as I’ve been trying to clean the area up anyway. I dug a plug in the loose black dirt and stuck the pro pointer in to locate the target. It was right at the bottom of the hole. I scooped a handful of dirt out, and to my surprise, a large green coin came with it! I initially thought it had to be a large cent, which would have been exciting enough for that location. I noticed it was a little larger than a large cent, which confused me at first. I picked up the coin and with one swipe instantly knew it was a New Jersey colonial copper! This is my oldest coin to date and certainly lends credence to the age of the cellar hole. Being a New Jersey native and hunting a local site made it even sweeter, and my most prized find yet. The ACE 400 is definitely a winner for me!
Eric S. WINS a Pro-Pointer AT!
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WINNER #5
My fifth U.S. favorite find for December 2016 is the 1st Dragoon Civil War Button, found by Gary F. from California with his AT Pro.
Story: Found at a Civil War Era site in Southern California. The 1st Dragoon button has the shank attached and a lot of the gilding still intact.
Gary F. WINS a Pro-Pointer AT!
Story: Found at a Civil War Era site in Southern California. The 1st Dragoon button has the shank attached and a lot of the gilding still intact.
Gary F. WINS a Pro-Pointer AT!
NOVEMBER 2016 HAS FIVE WINNERS!!!
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WINNER #1
My U.S. favorite find for November 2016 is the Gold Ring With 14 Diamonds, found by Terry S. from Illinois with the AT Pro.
Terry’s story: I was using my AT PRO detecting a volley ball pit and had a solid signal of 51. I scooped into the sand 7 inches down and pulled up this beauty. A gold ring with 14 diamonds. I have found many rings in Lake Michigan and in parks in Chicago and these type of finds have me now in first place for treasure hunter of the year in our club, The Midwest Historical Research Society. Sadly there was no name in the ring and I was unable to locate the owner.
Terry S. WINS a Pro-Pointer AT!
Terry’s story: I was using my AT PRO detecting a volley ball pit and had a solid signal of 51. I scooped into the sand 7 inches down and pulled up this beauty. A gold ring with 14 diamonds. I have found many rings in Lake Michigan and in parks in Chicago and these type of finds have me now in first place for treasure hunter of the year in our club, The Midwest Historical Research Society. Sadly there was no name in the ring and I was unable to locate the owner.
Terry S. WINS a Pro-Pointer AT!
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WINNER #2
My second U.S. favorite find for November 2016 is the 1794 Large Cent, found by Aggie H. from Ohio with the AT Pro.
Aggie’s story: Found in central Ohio at an 1860’s old home site. It was my last hole of the day, after spending 4.5 hours digging and at that point, did have not much to show for the days effort. It rang up as a repeatable 88 on my AT Pro and just about blew my ears off. I looked at the depth which indicated 2" down. I dug the two inches, only to find that the target was actually 1/2" down, if that, when I located it with my ProPointer. I extracted it, wiped it to reveal a rust colored coin that felt like a large cent, given its shape and weight. I proceeded to an outside tap to wash it off to reveal this beautiful lady staring back at me. The warmth of the setting sun, the sound of the yellow leaves dancing around me and the feeling of bringing back history--a coin when George Washington was in office--made for a perfect fall day.
Aggie H. WINS a Pro-Pointer AT!
Aggie’s story: Found in central Ohio at an 1860’s old home site. It was my last hole of the day, after spending 4.5 hours digging and at that point, did have not much to show for the days effort. It rang up as a repeatable 88 on my AT Pro and just about blew my ears off. I looked at the depth which indicated 2" down. I dug the two inches, only to find that the target was actually 1/2" down, if that, when I located it with my ProPointer. I extracted it, wiped it to reveal a rust colored coin that felt like a large cent, given its shape and weight. I proceeded to an outside tap to wash it off to reveal this beautiful lady staring back at me. The warmth of the setting sun, the sound of the yellow leaves dancing around me and the feeling of bringing back history--a coin when George Washington was in office--made for a perfect fall day.
Aggie H. WINS a Pro-Pointer AT!
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WINNER #3
My third U.S. favorite find for November 2016 is the 1908 Deadwood South Dakota Souvenir, found by Marcus G. from South Dakota with the AT Gold.
Marcus’s story: Me and a buddy got permission to dig a house in Custer SD built in the 1890s. There was a stump in the front yard from an old willow tree. I decided it looked like a great place to start my search. Not long after a had a screaming signal in the middle of a bunch of iron. It sounded too shallow to be any good but decided to dig anyways. I couldn’t believe what rolled out of the 1 inch deep hole. It was a souvenir from the Paha Sapa carnival in Deadwood SD from 1908. And the first annual to boot! I wanted to show the homeowner and he thought it was so cool he decided to keep it. For me it was a little bitter sweet letting such an awesome relic go, but I hope he enjoys it as much as I did finding it. I did manage to get one picture of it before letting it go.
Marcus G. WINS a Pro-Pointer AT!
Marcus’s story: Me and a buddy got permission to dig a house in Custer SD built in the 1890s. There was a stump in the front yard from an old willow tree. I decided it looked like a great place to start my search. Not long after a had a screaming signal in the middle of a bunch of iron. It sounded too shallow to be any good but decided to dig anyways. I couldn’t believe what rolled out of the 1 inch deep hole. It was a souvenir from the Paha Sapa carnival in Deadwood SD from 1908. And the first annual to boot! I wanted to show the homeowner and he thought it was so cool he decided to keep it. For me it was a little bitter sweet letting such an awesome relic go, but I hope he enjoys it as much as I did finding it. I did manage to get one picture of it before letting it go.
Marcus G. WINS a Pro-Pointer AT!
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WINNER #4
My fourth U.S. favorite find for November 2016 is the Indian Wars Buckle, found by Steven C. from Georgia with the AT Pro.
Steven’s story: I recently purchased the AT Pro and was ready to try it out. On my first outing at a new hunting location, I was shocked when I found this buckle. The buckle was at least six inches deep and came in good with the AT Pro. This detector is a great relic machine.
Steven C. WINS a Pro-Pointer AT!
Steven’s story: I recently purchased the AT Pro and was ready to try it out. On my first outing at a new hunting location, I was shocked when I found this buckle. The buckle was at least six inches deep and came in good with the AT Pro. This detector is a great relic machine.
Steven C. WINS a Pro-Pointer AT!
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WINNER #5
My fifth U.S. favorite find for November 2016 is the Civil War black powder flask, found by Ritchie K. from Maine with the AT Pro.
Ritchie’s story: My friend Kelly and I hunted a house site that is now just pasture. When I dug the flask it was covered with dirt and I thought it was sheet metal flashing (trash). It wasn’t until the next day that I could see what looked like a shield stamped into it. Gently I dry brushed the dirt away and the detail emerged.
Ritchie K. WINS a Pro-Pointer AT!
Ritchie’s story: My friend Kelly and I hunted a house site that is now just pasture. When I dug the flask it was covered with dirt and I thought it was sheet metal flashing (trash). It wasn’t until the next day that I could see what looked like a shield stamped into it. Gently I dry brushed the dirt away and the detail emerged.
Ritchie K. WINS a Pro-Pointer AT!
OCTOBER 2016 HAS FIVE WINNERS!
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WINNER #1
My U.S. favorite find is the 1862 1 Dollar Indian Princess Gold Coin, found by Brandon C. from Virginia with his AT Pro.
Brandon says, “I am 28 and have been metal detecting only 1 year and found my first gold coin. I was hunting some woods behind a friend’s house in central Virginia. When I swung the detector I just had this weird feeling it was something good, and low and behold my first and only gold coin! I was stunned and thanks to garrett I’ve found loads of civil war relics this past year but this gold coin still holds a special spot in all my finds. It’s a 1862 gold 1 dollar Indian princess type 2 and it’s a war date coin.”
Brandon C. WINS a Pro-Pointer AT!
Brandon says, “I am 28 and have been metal detecting only 1 year and found my first gold coin. I was hunting some woods behind a friend’s house in central Virginia. When I swung the detector I just had this weird feeling it was something good, and low and behold my first and only gold coin! I was stunned and thanks to garrett I’ve found loads of civil war relics this past year but this gold coin still holds a special spot in all my finds. It’s a 1862 gold 1 dollar Indian princess type 2 and it’s a war date coin.”
Brandon C. WINS a Pro-Pointer AT!
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WINNER #2
My second U.S. favorite find is the 1845 2.5 Dollar Gold Coin, found by David J. from California with his AT Pro.
David’s story: “I was informed that a local beach got carved out during a storm so I went out to take a look. Went over the same spot over the course of three days digging lead, brass, copper, bullets and nails and such. On the third day this coin showed up in the side of a hole. Glad I missed it with the shovel. Great day. I’m on detector number two in five years as I’m rough on them and I’m out there almost everyday. Garrett AT Pro is a simple, easy to use machine that thankfully is able to hold up to all I throw AT it.”
David J. WINS a Pro-Pointer AT!
David’s story: “I was informed that a local beach got carved out during a storm so I went out to take a look. Went over the same spot over the course of three days digging lead, brass, copper, bullets and nails and such. On the third day this coin showed up in the side of a hole. Glad I missed it with the shovel. Great day. I’m on detector number two in five years as I’m rough on them and I’m out there almost everyday. Garrett AT Pro is a simple, easy to use machine that thankfully is able to hold up to all I throw AT it.”
David J. WINS a Pro-Pointer AT!
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WINNER #3
My third U.S. favorite find is the 1.68 oz Gold Nugget, found by Jeff G. from New York with his AT Gold.
Jeff’s story: “Found in California. 1.68 oz”
Jeff G. WINS a Pro-Pointer AT!
Jeff’s story: “Found in California. 1.68 oz”
Jeff G. WINS a Pro-Pointer AT!
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WINNER #4
My fourth U.S. favorite find is the 1652 Oak Tree Schilling, found by Robert G. from New Hampshire with his AT Gold.
Robert’s story: “Hi. I am known as just Bob from the YouTube channel stealth diggers. I have been detecting for a little over four years. I was out hunting with my good friend Nate in a Massachusetts potato field when I came across a clean 78 signal. After digging mostly trash I clearly knew this was a better signal. Honestly I was expecting it to be a modern zinc penny. To my surprise quite shockingly it was the find of a lifetime. 1652 oak tree shilling. A coin with quite an amazing history. For those reading, if you do not already know you should definitely research these amazing coins. Thank you Garrett I love your products and the AT Pro is a phenomenal machine, especially in trashy and iron cluttered areas.”
Robert G. WINS a Pro-Pointer AT!
Robert’s story: “Hi. I am known as just Bob from the YouTube channel stealth diggers. I have been detecting for a little over four years. I was out hunting with my good friend Nate in a Massachusetts potato field when I came across a clean 78 signal. After digging mostly trash I clearly knew this was a better signal. Honestly I was expecting it to be a modern zinc penny. To my surprise quite shockingly it was the find of a lifetime. 1652 oak tree shilling. A coin with quite an amazing history. For those reading, if you do not already know you should definitely research these amazing coins. Thank you Garrett I love your products and the AT Pro is a phenomenal machine, especially in trashy and iron cluttered areas.”
Robert G. WINS a Pro-Pointer AT!
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WINNER #5
My fifth U.S. favorite find is the 14 Karat Gold Class Ring, found by Joshua R. from Indiana with his Ace 350.
Joshua’s story: “I was detecting out at an old 1900’s school, when I got an awesome signal with my grandfathers detector. I dug myself a hole, and what happened next still has me in awe. I popped out a 14 Karat class ring! After further examination of the ring, I was able to find the initials of its past owner. I emailed the principal, and had a reply within a few days. Now that I had the owner’s phone number, I called him and give him the news! I could hear the joy in his voice when I told him about the ring. The next Saturday, I met up with him to return his long lost treasure. He told me that he even remembered what he was doing when he lost it, partying and drinking. What surprised him even more was the fact that I am only 15, and not only am I returning something that could’ve brought in some money, I turned down his offer to give me money for it. I told him that I detect for the sport, not the money! I turned my dream into a reality, thanks to Garrett!”
Joshua R. WINS a Pro-Pointer AT!
Joshua’s story: “I was detecting out at an old 1900’s school, when I got an awesome signal with my grandfathers detector. I dug myself a hole, and what happened next still has me in awe. I popped out a 14 Karat class ring! After further examination of the ring, I was able to find the initials of its past owner. I emailed the principal, and had a reply within a few days. Now that I had the owner’s phone number, I called him and give him the news! I could hear the joy in his voice when I told him about the ring. The next Saturday, I met up with him to return his long lost treasure. He told me that he even remembered what he was doing when he lost it, partying and drinking. What surprised him even more was the fact that I am only 15, and not only am I returning something that could’ve brought in some money, I turned down his offer to give me money for it. I told him that I detect for the sport, not the money! I turned my dream into a reality, thanks to Garrett!”
Joshua R. WINS a Pro-Pointer AT!
SEPTEMBER 2016 HAS FIVE WINNERS!
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WINNER #1
My U.S. favorite find is the Gold Pocket Watch, found by Clarence H. from South Dakota with his GTI 1500.
Clarence’s story: “I spent quite a few hours at the local park looking for coins and jewelry. Having found lots of pennies and clad coins along the play ground and sidewalk. I thought why not go across the road where they parked the vehicles. I spent a short time looking and got a beep that sounded good and checked the depth and size. It showed bigger than a coin but I dug it anyway and when I took the plug out I could see the gold of the stem. I began to think whatever it was it was gold so removed it from the hole. I first noticed that the face had no numbers or cover. I cleaned some of the dirt off and seen that there was a cover on the back which I opened to find a serial number and 18K marking. I went home and did an internet search and found that the watch was made in 1866 making it my oldest and best find. Took awhile for it to sink in what I had was the best find of my 40 years of detecting.”
Clarence H. WINS a Pro-Pointer AT!
Clarence’s story: “I spent quite a few hours at the local park looking for coins and jewelry. Having found lots of pennies and clad coins along the play ground and sidewalk. I thought why not go across the road where they parked the vehicles. I spent a short time looking and got a beep that sounded good and checked the depth and size. It showed bigger than a coin but I dug it anyway and when I took the plug out I could see the gold of the stem. I began to think whatever it was it was gold so removed it from the hole. I first noticed that the face had no numbers or cover. I cleaned some of the dirt off and seen that there was a cover on the back which I opened to find a serial number and 18K marking. I went home and did an internet search and found that the watch was made in 1866 making it my oldest and best find. Took awhile for it to sink in what I had was the best find of my 40 years of detecting.”
Clarence H. WINS a Pro-Pointer AT!
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WINNER #2
My second U.S. favorite find is the 1909 D $5 Gold Indian Head Half Eagle, found by Dr. Michael M. from Massachusetts with his AT Pro.
Michael’s story (edited): “I was working a wooded area near a 1912 homestead cellar hole. I was finding the usual junk iron and nails; usually run a wide open screen on my machines and dig everything. After about an hour of digging nothing of great value I began searching the rear of the house area (now part of a corn field) in a small grid based on my search flags positioned in the ground. While overlapping the first with the second at 90 degrees I received an interesting odd mid-higher tone with an ID of 67. I dug an 8" plug in the rich soil and began exploring the area with the pin-pointer so not to damage whatever was in the hole. It “shouted” an inch more and I scooped dirt out of the hole with my gloved hand. I very quickly noticed a shiny gold object that looked at first glance like a golden screw cap that I’ve dug about a thousand times. My deep disappointment to sheer joy happened when I observed an image on the object. I screamed to myself “Holy Crap” it’s a gold coin. A 1909 D Indian Head Half Eagle was in my hand! I think it will be tough to top this find. It is my first gold coin. The jeweler’s cleaning made the coin look beautiful, only making the experience of the find more significant. After carefully examining the coin it appears to have a grade of extra fine.”
Dr. Michael M. WINS a Pro-Pointer AT!
Michael’s story (edited): “I was working a wooded area near a 1912 homestead cellar hole. I was finding the usual junk iron and nails; usually run a wide open screen on my machines and dig everything. After about an hour of digging nothing of great value I began searching the rear of the house area (now part of a corn field) in a small grid based on my search flags positioned in the ground. While overlapping the first with the second at 90 degrees I received an interesting odd mid-higher tone with an ID of 67. I dug an 8" plug in the rich soil and began exploring the area with the pin-pointer so not to damage whatever was in the hole. It “shouted” an inch more and I scooped dirt out of the hole with my gloved hand. I very quickly noticed a shiny gold object that looked at first glance like a golden screw cap that I’ve dug about a thousand times. My deep disappointment to sheer joy happened when I observed an image on the object. I screamed to myself “Holy Crap” it’s a gold coin. A 1909 D Indian Head Half Eagle was in my hand! I think it will be tough to top this find. It is my first gold coin. The jeweler’s cleaning made the coin look beautiful, only making the experience of the find more significant. After carefully examining the coin it appears to have a grade of extra fine.”
Dr. Michael M. WINS a Pro-Pointer AT!
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WINNER #3
My third U.S. favorite find is the pair of Revolutionary War British fittings, found by Joseph E. from New Jersey with his AT Pro.
Joseph’s story: “The family all went on a trip to my in-laws cabin in NH recently. My father-in-law always told me about these old foundations up the hill behind his place but we never seem to have hiked up there. Well this time he told me to bring my metal detector. We waited until the last day of our vacation and only had a few hours to spare so we finally hiked up. We immediately came across hits all over. He had a hit and began to dig and had to have my son, who faithfully wielded the only Pro Pointer, to help in his hole. Low and behold they found the first silver plated “fitting”. Much celebration as we knew it was old but not sure of what it exactly was, and he moved on. I was near him so as I came around I got a high hit almost in his same hole with my AT Pro. So I called my son over and we dug and out popped the other fitting! They are in beautiful condition for their age. I searched the internet and came across a man by the name of Don Troinani who has a website and appears to be one of the foremost experts in Revolutionary War history. I sent him the pics and he confirmed they were Revolutionary War British horse bridle adornment fittings! Needless to say we were very excited and have plans to return to the sight soon! Our first Revolutionary War relic finds and they are British to boot. Very exciting. All my father-in law said the entire time was “I need one of those pointer things”. I ordered him one the other day but got him the newer Pro-Pointer AT.”
Joseph E. WINS a Pro-Pointer AT!
Joseph’s story: “The family all went on a trip to my in-laws cabin in NH recently. My father-in-law always told me about these old foundations up the hill behind his place but we never seem to have hiked up there. Well this time he told me to bring my metal detector. We waited until the last day of our vacation and only had a few hours to spare so we finally hiked up. We immediately came across hits all over. He had a hit and began to dig and had to have my son, who faithfully wielded the only Pro Pointer, to help in his hole. Low and behold they found the first silver plated “fitting”. Much celebration as we knew it was old but not sure of what it exactly was, and he moved on. I was near him so as I came around I got a high hit almost in his same hole with my AT Pro. So I called my son over and we dug and out popped the other fitting! They are in beautiful condition for their age. I searched the internet and came across a man by the name of Don Troinani who has a website and appears to be one of the foremost experts in Revolutionary War history. I sent him the pics and he confirmed they were Revolutionary War British horse bridle adornment fittings! Needless to say we were very excited and have plans to return to the sight soon! Our first Revolutionary War relic finds and they are British to boot. Very exciting. All my father-in law said the entire time was “I need one of those pointer things”. I ordered him one the other day but got him the newer Pro-Pointer AT.”
Joseph E. WINS a Pro-Pointer AT!
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WINNER #4
My fourth U.S. favorite find is the Silver Ring, found by Paul M. from Louisiana with his AT Gold.
Paul’s story: “I hit the local lake/beach last Sunday afternoon. First target was a scratchy mid tone, not too promising, but I’ll dig it anyway. 2 scoops down, out pops the ring box, straddling the edge of the scoop. Strange. Well, maybe there’s a ring in the hole to go with it. Sure enough, pass the coil over the hole, still have a signal. Another scoop, out pops a tarnished ring. Cleaned it off a little with some sand, 925. Imagine the story that must be behind this, a ring in the box in the lake. I would like to know that story.”
Paul M. WINS a Pro-Pointer AT!
Paul’s story: “I hit the local lake/beach last Sunday afternoon. First target was a scratchy mid tone, not too promising, but I’ll dig it anyway. 2 scoops down, out pops the ring box, straddling the edge of the scoop. Strange. Well, maybe there’s a ring in the hole to go with it. Sure enough, pass the coil over the hole, still have a signal. Another scoop, out pops a tarnished ring. Cleaned it off a little with some sand, 925. Imagine the story that must be behind this, a ring in the box in the lake. I would like to know that story.”
Paul M. WINS a Pro-Pointer AT!
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WINNER #5
My fifth U.S. favorite finds are the Civil War NY Militia State Seal Excelsior Officer Coat Buttons, found by Kimmie P. from North Carolina with her AT Pro.
Kimmie’s story (edited): “I have an addiction: Metal detecting! I listened as Lee and Gerald (friends) spoke about the next day’s permission, as the conversation turned to the historic maps of Virginia hills. We traced old rivers and roads enabling us to pinpoint our location and plan our attack. We had been to this site once before and found very few relics so we were hopeful, but prepared to work hard for our finds. The next morning our team set out into the woods and surprisingly a few bullets popped up rather quickly, and then, nothing. The place was littered with modern shells and ammunition but I was content to dig all day, driven by the potential of uncovering history. I had wandered down to the creek bed hoping for some luck when I received a text message from Lee. “I’m at the end of the property and I just dug a three ringer!” It’s amazing how quickly a team can become rejuvenated when someone finds something good! Just then Gerald shouts, “I’ve got another bullet!” My next hit was a bit jumpy, going down to 54 then up to the low 70s, but predominately 63. The AT Pro is fabulous at finding masked targets so I was thinking I may have multiple items in the hole. I cut my plug extra wide and began to dig eight inches down. I grabbed for my pin pointer and narrowed the location, moving the loosened soil out of the way. I immediately spied the shank of a button. “Oh Yea! Chick just dug a button!” I shouted with a huge grin on my face. By now Lee was at my side. “No way! You just dug an officer’s coat button!” I handed the button to Lee, “Take it, I can’t hold it! I’m shaking! If this is the last thing I dig all weekend, I’m good!” Gerald said, “Good find Kimmie!”
“The next target was ringing up to the 80s, down to the 60s and I was pretty sure it was a civil war bullet. As I pulled out the plug I saw what appeared to be a flat button. “Oh wow,” I said. “Did you just find another one?” Lee yelled. “I got a really nice flat button”, I replied. I tried to read the writing on what I thought was the front. I quickly realized it was actually a button back! My heart jumped as my attention went to the plug. I immediately spied a shining glint of gold and green peeking from the clod. I carefully plucked out the top part of the button which had just come apart in the plug. The inside was shimmering with a near-pristine gold gilt. Lee exclaimed “You just dug my bucket list button! That’s a New York button!” I was speechless! Upon further inspection we realize the buttons I dug were identical, both being New York Militia State Seal Excelsior buttons. To my absolute amazement, based on where we were digging, troop movement, and the dates of battle, I am able to say with strong certainty my buttons were lost by an officer of the 71st New York Militia on June 29, 1862.”
Kimmie P. WINS a Pro-Pointer AT!
Kimmie’s story (edited): “I have an addiction: Metal detecting! I listened as Lee and Gerald (friends) spoke about the next day’s permission, as the conversation turned to the historic maps of Virginia hills. We traced old rivers and roads enabling us to pinpoint our location and plan our attack. We had been to this site once before and found very few relics so we were hopeful, but prepared to work hard for our finds. The next morning our team set out into the woods and surprisingly a few bullets popped up rather quickly, and then, nothing. The place was littered with modern shells and ammunition but I was content to dig all day, driven by the potential of uncovering history. I had wandered down to the creek bed hoping for some luck when I received a text message from Lee. “I’m at the end of the property and I just dug a three ringer!” It’s amazing how quickly a team can become rejuvenated when someone finds something good! Just then Gerald shouts, “I’ve got another bullet!” My next hit was a bit jumpy, going down to 54 then up to the low 70s, but predominately 63. The AT Pro is fabulous at finding masked targets so I was thinking I may have multiple items in the hole. I cut my plug extra wide and began to dig eight inches down. I grabbed for my pin pointer and narrowed the location, moving the loosened soil out of the way. I immediately spied the shank of a button. “Oh Yea! Chick just dug a button!” I shouted with a huge grin on my face. By now Lee was at my side. “No way! You just dug an officer’s coat button!” I handed the button to Lee, “Take it, I can’t hold it! I’m shaking! If this is the last thing I dig all weekend, I’m good!” Gerald said, “Good find Kimmie!”
“The next target was ringing up to the 80s, down to the 60s and I was pretty sure it was a civil war bullet. As I pulled out the plug I saw what appeared to be a flat button. “Oh wow,” I said. “Did you just find another one?” Lee yelled. “I got a really nice flat button”, I replied. I tried to read the writing on what I thought was the front. I quickly realized it was actually a button back! My heart jumped as my attention went to the plug. I immediately spied a shining glint of gold and green peeking from the clod. I carefully plucked out the top part of the button which had just come apart in the plug. The inside was shimmering with a near-pristine gold gilt. Lee exclaimed “You just dug my bucket list button! That’s a New York button!” I was speechless! Upon further inspection we realize the buttons I dug were identical, both being New York Militia State Seal Excelsior buttons. To my absolute amazement, based on where we were digging, troop movement, and the dates of battle, I am able to say with strong certainty my buttons were lost by an officer of the 71st New York Militia on June 29, 1862.”
Kimmie P. WINS a Pro-Pointer AT!
AUGUST 2016 HAS FOUR WINNERS!
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WINNER #1
My favorite U.S. favorite find for August 2016 is the Silver 1652 Pine Tree Schilling, found by Steve S. from Massachusetts with his AT Pro and Pro-Pointer II.
Steve’s story (edited): “Most Saturday mornings I spend valuable bonding time metal detecting with my teen son Jonathan. He loves the hobby of finding and collecting old coins just as much as his dad. We belong to a club in central Massachusetts that meets once a month, 1 hour from our home. I had just purchased a new AT Pro for my son’s 15th birthday, yet this story used my older AT Pro with the standard Double-D. This past Saturday morning, my son and I headed out to a local farm dating back to the 1700’s. The area I was working was the location of a barn that was demolished back in the 1930’s. After a few hours of not finding much, I heard a faint tone in the 75-81 zone. The depth indicator was between 8 and 10, and at 8 inches we saw something silver with strange markings. My son looked at me, and I looked at him and couldn’t believe our eyes. I knew it was old but had no idea it was rare. My son and I dusted it off and fell back for a moment then high-fived each other. I will never forget that moment he and and I shared after finding this. After being sent to ANACS, it was authenticated and graded VF-35. It’s a 1652 NOE 18 Pine Tree Schilling, a find of a lifetime. Treasures like this still exist and are waiting to be found. My son told me this is what keeps him alive in the hobby. You just never know what you are going to dig up!”
Steve V. WINS a Pro-Pointer AT!
Steve’s story (edited): “Most Saturday mornings I spend valuable bonding time metal detecting with my teen son Jonathan. He loves the hobby of finding and collecting old coins just as much as his dad. We belong to a club in central Massachusetts that meets once a month, 1 hour from our home. I had just purchased a new AT Pro for my son’s 15th birthday, yet this story used my older AT Pro with the standard Double-D. This past Saturday morning, my son and I headed out to a local farm dating back to the 1700’s. The area I was working was the location of a barn that was demolished back in the 1930’s. After a few hours of not finding much, I heard a faint tone in the 75-81 zone. The depth indicator was between 8 and 10, and at 8 inches we saw something silver with strange markings. My son looked at me, and I looked at him and couldn’t believe our eyes. I knew it was old but had no idea it was rare. My son and I dusted it off and fell back for a moment then high-fived each other. I will never forget that moment he and and I shared after finding this. After being sent to ANACS, it was authenticated and graded VF-35. It’s a 1652 NOE 18 Pine Tree Schilling, a find of a lifetime. Treasures like this still exist and are waiting to be found. My son told me this is what keeps him alive in the hobby. You just never know what you are going to dig up!”
Steve V. WINS a Pro-Pointer AT!
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WINNER #2
My second U.S. favorite find for August 2016 is the 18k Gold European cut diamond ring, found by Jim K. from Michigan with his AT Pro.
Jim’s story: “First off I am very fortunate to have found a site that produces finds like this. Second I’m thankful to have a water machine that can handle the iron infested areas like my AT Pro can! I was working the iron again this day, already had a V nickel, a buffalo, a silver rosie and Washington. I was getting a little tired and thinking about calling it a day. I decided to push a little harder, just one gold, any gold and then you can quit, I told myself. I then picked out a nice crispy mid tone through the iron. I thought it was going to be another buffalo, but what I saw in my scoop was no buff. Sleeping with iron for over a century, it’s color was pretty off, but when I picked it up there was no mistaking the weight. Already excited I looked inside for karat marks, and was just blown away! It read “Julia To Mason Xmas 1890" with the old style block mark of 18K! I immediately knew it was the best ring I’ve ever found with over four hundred preceding it. Turns out to be 9.9 grams of 18k, with a half carat European cut diamond. Not sure if I’ll ever top this find, but I know I’ll have a lot of fun trying to! Thanks Garrett!!”
Jim K. WINS a Pro-Pointer AT!
Jim’s story: “First off I am very fortunate to have found a site that produces finds like this. Second I’m thankful to have a water machine that can handle the iron infested areas like my AT Pro can! I was working the iron again this day, already had a V nickel, a buffalo, a silver rosie and Washington. I was getting a little tired and thinking about calling it a day. I decided to push a little harder, just one gold, any gold and then you can quit, I told myself. I then picked out a nice crispy mid tone through the iron. I thought it was going to be another buffalo, but what I saw in my scoop was no buff. Sleeping with iron for over a century, it’s color was pretty off, but when I picked it up there was no mistaking the weight. Already excited I looked inside for karat marks, and was just blown away! It read “Julia To Mason Xmas 1890" with the old style block mark of 18K! I immediately knew it was the best ring I’ve ever found with over four hundred preceding it. Turns out to be 9.9 grams of 18k, with a half carat European cut diamond. Not sure if I’ll ever top this find, but I know I’ll have a lot of fun trying to! Thanks Garrett!!”
Jim K. WINS a Pro-Pointer AT!
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WINNER #3
My third favorite U.S. favorite find for August 2016 is the Confederate Virginia Officers Sword Belt Plate, found by Lee J. from Virginia with his AT Gold.
Lee’s story: “On 8/06/2016 I ventured to a new permission with my AT Gold on some land that I just obtained in central VA. Little did I know my whole life was about to change. Twenty years of hunting I have dreamed over finding a Confederate plate. Little did I know that day I would dig my holy grail! A civil Virginia officers sword belt plate. Rung up a solid 88 on my AT Gold. I told my buddy before I dug it I got either a plate or a soda can. The AT Gold has come through for me again and again. Thanks for making a great machine.”
Lee J. WINS a Pro-Pointer AT!
Lee’s story: “On 8/06/2016 I ventured to a new permission with my AT Gold on some land that I just obtained in central VA. Little did I know my whole life was about to change. Twenty years of hunting I have dreamed over finding a Confederate plate. Little did I know that day I would dig my holy grail! A civil Virginia officers sword belt plate. Rung up a solid 88 on my AT Gold. I told my buddy before I dug it I got either a plate or a soda can. The AT Gold has come through for me again and again. Thanks for making a great machine.”
Lee J. WINS a Pro-Pointer AT!
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WINNER #4
My fourth U.S. favorite find for August 2016 is the $5 gold coin necklace, found by Barry N. from Oklahoma with his AT Pro.
Barry’s story: "While hunting a sidewalk area that had been turned up for a highway expansion, I found this 1996 $5 gold bullion coin. It appears to have been a necklace at one time."
Barry N. WINS a Pro-Pointer AT!
Barry’s story: "While hunting a sidewalk area that had been turned up for a highway expansion, I found this 1996 $5 gold bullion coin. It appears to have been a necklace at one time."
Barry N. WINS a Pro-Pointer AT!
JULY 2016 HAS TWO WINNERS!
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WINNER #1
My U.S. favorite find for July 2016 is the War of 1812 Light Artillery 1st Regiment Flat Button, found by Steve V. from Indiana, with his AT Pro.
Steve’s story: “Hello. After our May 2016 club hunt, I decided to try detecting a new to me spot in a public park that is next to a river. Several club members have told me that the location used to be a fur trader outpost. I was detecting for about a 1/2 hour trying to find a decent signal thru all the square nails that litter the site when I hit a small mid tone target that would bounce into the 70’s on the AT Pro. I dug down 8-9 inches and out popped this beautiful Light Artillery 1 Regiment flat button. I did not know what I had at first, but a club member gave me an ID and a date used of 1808 to 1820. I am very excited to have found a relic from the War of 1812 and could have possibly been lost before Indiana was even a State. Thank you, Steve.”
Steve V. WINS a Pro-Pointer AT!
Steve’s story: “Hello. After our May 2016 club hunt, I decided to try detecting a new to me spot in a public park that is next to a river. Several club members have told me that the location used to be a fur trader outpost. I was detecting for about a 1/2 hour trying to find a decent signal thru all the square nails that litter the site when I hit a small mid tone target that would bounce into the 70’s on the AT Pro. I dug down 8-9 inches and out popped this beautiful Light Artillery 1 Regiment flat button. I did not know what I had at first, but a club member gave me an ID and a date used of 1808 to 1820. I am very excited to have found a relic from the War of 1812 and could have possibly been lost before Indiana was even a State. Thank you, Steve.”
Steve V. WINS a Pro-Pointer AT!
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WINNER #2
My second U.S. favorite find for July 2016 is the Silver Mesh Coin Purse Full of Barber Coins, found by Joe F. from Minnesota with his Ace 250.
Joe’s story: “On a family vacation in Maine we went to a park on the site of a hotel that burned down in the early 1900’s where we have found many coins in the past. This time I ventured into the edge of the woods since the vegetation wasn't too thick and got a quarter signal about 5 inches deep. I cut my plug and pulled it up…nothing in the plug which means it’s truly a deep target. At about 5 inches I pulled out a clump of dirt and noticed a clasp. Not quite sure what it was I removed it from the dirt and immediately recognized it as a small coin purse and it had some weight to it. I could feel coins inside and my blood started pumping. I carefully opened the clasp, not sure if the purse would destruct, and immediately saw the edge of a silver coin. Only wide enough for two fingers, I carefully reached inside and pulled out a 1896 BARBER QUARTER and there were still coins inside! The dirt was thick so I could not see what was inside but I reached in with my fingers and clasped a coin and gently pulled it out...an 1898 S BARBER HALF DOLLAR! There were still more coins in the purse, a 1901 V NICKEL and an 1898 BARBER DIME! I was in shock and excited. I packed the coins and purse in a paper towel and headed back to the hotel. I rinsed off the purse and found out that it too was SILVER!”
“All together I found a vintage silver coin purse, barber dime, barber quarter, barber half dollar and a V nickel in one hole. The attached photo is one of the coins and purse fresh out of the ground. You will notice that the v-nickel was sitting between the dime and the half dollar and left a green “circle” on the half and green patina on the dime. I also included an obverse photo of the half dollar for good measure. Thanks for a great product!”
Joe F. WINS a Pro-Pointer AT!
Joe’s story: “On a family vacation in Maine we went to a park on the site of a hotel that burned down in the early 1900’s where we have found many coins in the past. This time I ventured into the edge of the woods since the vegetation wasn't too thick and got a quarter signal about 5 inches deep. I cut my plug and pulled it up…nothing in the plug which means it’s truly a deep target. At about 5 inches I pulled out a clump of dirt and noticed a clasp. Not quite sure what it was I removed it from the dirt and immediately recognized it as a small coin purse and it had some weight to it. I could feel coins inside and my blood started pumping. I carefully opened the clasp, not sure if the purse would destruct, and immediately saw the edge of a silver coin. Only wide enough for two fingers, I carefully reached inside and pulled out a 1896 BARBER QUARTER and there were still coins inside! The dirt was thick so I could not see what was inside but I reached in with my fingers and clasped a coin and gently pulled it out...an 1898 S BARBER HALF DOLLAR! There were still more coins in the purse, a 1901 V NICKEL and an 1898 BARBER DIME! I was in shock and excited. I packed the coins and purse in a paper towel and headed back to the hotel. I rinsed off the purse and found out that it too was SILVER!”
“All together I found a vintage silver coin purse, barber dime, barber quarter, barber half dollar and a V nickel in one hole. The attached photo is one of the coins and purse fresh out of the ground. You will notice that the v-nickel was sitting between the dime and the half dollar and left a green “circle” on the half and green patina on the dime. I also included an obverse photo of the half dollar for good measure. Thanks for a great product!”
Joe F. WINS a Pro-Pointer AT!
