How to Identify Your Metal Detecting Finds

Finding a mysterious object while metal detecting is thrilling, but the real treasure hunt begins when it’s time to identify what you’ve unearthed. Whether you’re scanning the ancient soils of the UK or combing through relic-rich grounds in the USA, knowing how to accurately identify your finds is crucial. It adds value, context, and meaning to your discovery, turning a rusty piece of metal into a fascinating artifact with a story.

But how do you go about identifying those finds? Let’s dive into some tried-and-true methods to help you unlock the secrets of your metal detecting treasures.

Popular Finds in the UK vs. USA

Metal detecting in the UK and the USA can lead to some fascinating discoveries, but the types of finds differ significantly due to the rich and varied histories of each region. Understanding these regional differences is the first step in identifying your finds, as it gives you clues about what you might have discovered.

In the UK, you could stumble upon anything from Roman coins and medieval artifacts to Saxon relics and Victorian era treasures. The deep historical layers of the British Isles mean that a single field can reveal items spanning centuries, if not millennia.

Meanwhile, in the USA, you’re more likely to uncover relics from the Colonial era, Civil War artifacts, Native American tools, or early settler coins. The focus is often on objects related to the more recent history, though there are still plenty of fascinating finds waiting to be unearthed.

For a deeper dive into the types of finds you might come across in each country, check out our detailed article on Metal Detecting in the UK vs. the USA.

Methods for Identifying Metal Detecting Finds

1. Using Online Forums and Communities

One of the most helpful resources for identifying metal detecting finds is online forums and communities. These platforms are filled with seasoned detectorists who are often more than happy to help identify your finds. Some popular forums include the Detectorists’ Network and TreasureNet, where users post photos and descriptions of their discoveries to receive feedback from the community.

Tip: When posting on forums, be specific with your description, include multiple angles of the find, and mention where it was found (country or region). This context can significantly help others in assisting with identification.

Online forums can also offer insights into regional variations of similar artifacts, which is especially useful if you’re detecting in a location with diverse historical influences. For example, a Roman coin found in the UK might look different from one discovered in another part of Europe due to differences in regional minting practices.

2. Joining Metal Detecting Groups on Social Media

If forums aren’t your thing, metal detecting groups on social media platforms like Facebook or Reddit can be a goldmine of information. Groups like “UK Metal Detecting Finds” or “Metal Detecting USA” offer a wealth of knowledge from both amateurs and experts. These communities are very active, and you often get responses quickly.

Personal Story: I’ve found myself turning to these groups more than once. The metal detecting community is filled with knowledgeable enthusiasts who are quick to offer suggestions or point you in the right direction. Plus, the sense of camaraderie is fantastic!

Being part of these groups can also keep you updated on local laws and regulations, which is crucial if you’re detecting in areas with strict rules. For more on this, read our guide on Understanding Metal Detecting Law.

3. Consulting Reference Books and Guides

There’s still something special about holding a good old-fashioned book in your hands. Books like “Metal Detecting for Beginners” by Mark Smith or “A Guide to Artifacts in the UK” are invaluable resources for identifying finds. They often come with detailed photographs, descriptions, and even historical context that you won’t always find online.

Having a small collection of reference books can help you quickly compare your finds to known examples. For those in the USA, guides that focus on Native American artifacts, Civil War relics, or early settler tools can be particularly useful.

If you’re serious about metal detecting, investing in a few reference books is a must. They’re especially helpful for those unique finds that might not have a digital footprint.

There’s plenty of books to help identify your finds on Amazon here >>>

4. Leveraging Google Image Search and Visual Identification Tools

Now, this is one of my favorite tricks – using Google Image Search. Simply take a clear photo of your find and upload it to Google Images. The search will show visually similar results, which can sometimes help you identify your find or at least point you in the right direction.

Personal Story: I remember finding a cricket belt buckle while detecting in Lincolnshire. It was a curious piece, and I was eager to learn more. I took a photo of it and searched using Google Images. To my surprise, the result was an exact match with a belt buckle featured in the National Museum of Australia: Monty Faithfull’s cricket belt. This helped me identify its age and origin, adding a fascinating layer to my discovery. Sometimes, technology can be a detectorist’s best friend!

Using tools like Google Image Search can be a game-changer, especially for items that are rare or unusual. It’s also a great first step before diving into more specialized resources.

5. Contacting Local Finds Liaison Officers (UK Only)

For those of you detecting in the UK, don’t forget about your local Finds Liaison Officer (FLO). The FLO is a part of the Portable Antiquities Scheme (PAS) and is there to help identify finds, particularly those of significant historical value. You can contact your local FLO through the PAS website, and they can provide expert analysis on your find.

They not only help with identification but also with legal aspects, such as whether an item should be reported under the Treasure Act. Plus, contributing your find to the PAS database can add to the historical knowledge of your area.

For more on the legal requirements for reporting finds in the UK, check out our article on Understanding Metal Detecting Law.

6. Visiting Local Museums or Historical Societies (Both Regions)

Don’t underestimate the power of local expertise! Visiting your nearest museum or historical society can be an excellent way to get help with identification. Many museums, especially those focusing on local history, have experts who can help identify artifacts or relics. They might also provide you with more information about the historical context of your find.

Some museums even host special “finds days,” where detectorists can bring in their finds for identification and evaluation. This is a great opportunity to network with other detectorists and learn more about the history of your area.

7. Consulting Online Databases and Resources

There are several online databases dedicated to helping identify metal detecting finds. The Portable Antiquities Scheme in the UK and the National Park Service artifact database in the USA are excellent places to start. These resources offer detailed descriptions and images of thousands of artifacts, making them a fantastic reference point.

Other online resources like Artefact Database UK or Finds.org.uk provide specialized databases for different types of finds, such as coins, pottery, or weapons.

Using these databases can save you a lot of time, especially when identifying common finds like coins or buttons. They are also constantly updated with new entries, making them a dynamic resource.

Combining Multiple Methods for Accurate Identification

No single method is foolproof. The best approach is to combine multiple resources to get the most accurate identification. Use a mix of books, forums, online databases, and experts to cross-reference your findings. This multi-faceted approach ensures you have the most comprehensive understanding of your find.

Real-Life Examples: Identifying Finds (User Stories)

Sometimes, it’s all about sharing and learning from each other. For instance, I once found an unusual button in a field that looked ancient. After posting it on a metal detecting forum and checking several online databases, a fellow detectorist recognized it as a Victorian-era military button. The more you share your finds and stories, the more you learn!

These stories not only make for great conversation starters at detecting events, but they also provide valuable learning experiences. For more tales from the field, you might enjoy our article on Responsible Detecting Practices, which includes tips from seasoned detectorists.

Tips for Better Identifying Your Finds

1. Clean Finds Carefully: Always clean your finds carefully to avoid damaging them. Use soft brushes and avoid harsh chemicals. Gentle cleaning methods are essential to preserve the integrity of your finds, especially if they are made of delicate materials like thin metal or organic components.
2. Take Clear Photos: Take multiple photos from different angles to capture all details. Good lighting is crucial! Use a plain background to make the object stand out, and include a scale or ruler in the photo to provide context about the size of the find.
3. Document Everything: Keep detailed records of where and when you found each item, including location, depth, soil type, and any other relevant data. This documentation can be valuable when seeking expert advice or submitting finds to a database. You may want to use a metal detecting journal or logbook to keep your records organized.
4. Reach Out to Experts: Don’t hesitate to contact local historians, archaeologists, or experts. They often have specialized knowledge that can make all the difference in accurately identifying your finds. Many experts are eager to help, especially when your find adds new insights to their field of study.
5. Use Identification Apps and Tools: Some apps are specifically designed for artifact identification. While not always foolproof, they can provide a good starting point. Apps like “Seek by iNaturalist” or “Rekognition” by Amazon can help identify certain objects based on visual recognition.
6. Participate in Local or National Events: Many countries have metal detecting events or conventions where detectorists can bring their finds for expert evaluation and networking. Participating in such events not only helps in identification but also allows you to learn from the experiences of other detectorists. You can read more about these events in our article on Getting Permission for Metal Detecting.

Real-Life Examples: Identifying Finds (User Stories)

The best way to learn is often through the experiences of others. For example, one of my friends found a beautifully preserved medieval ring while detecting in a field in Norfolk, UK. Initially, it looked like any other old ring, but he knew it was something special. He posted a few photos on a popular metal detecting forum and was immediately pointed to a similar find listed in the Portable Antiquities Scheme (PAS) database. The ring was later confirmed to be a 15th-century medieval signet ring!

Similarly, another detectorist in the USA discovered a peculiar-looking metal object near an old battlefield. After trying several identification methods with no luck, he reached out to a local historical society. An expert there quickly identified it as a Confederate soldier’s belt buckle from the Civil War, providing not just identification but a deep history lesson in the process.

These stories underscore the importance of using multiple identification methods and not giving up after just one attempt. Each find, big or small, has a story, and with the right approach, you can uncover it!

Combining Multiple Methods for Accurate Identification

No single method is fool proof. The best approach is to combine multiple resources to get the most accurate identification. Use a mix of books, forums, online databases, social media groups, and expert consultations to cross-reference your findings. This multi-faceted approach ensures you have the most comprehensive understanding of your find.

Conclusion

Identifying your metal detecting finds can be just as thrilling as uncovering them. By using a combination of resources like forums, books, Google Image Search, local experts, and specialized databases, you can turn a mysterious object into a well-documented piece of history. The metal detecting community thrives on sharing knowledge, so don’t hesitate to contribute your findings and help others in their quest!

Additional Resources:

• • Portable Antiquities Scheme (PAS) – Finds.org.uk
  • National Park Service Artifact Database – NPS.gov
  • Detectorists’ Network Forum – Metal Detecting Forum

 

By following these methods and connecting with the metal detecting community, you’ll be well-equipped to identify your finds with confidence. And who knows, you might uncover a piece of history that changes the way we understand the past!

Have you discovered a unique find and used an interesting method to identify it? Share your tips, stories, and methods in the comments below! Your experience could help a fellow detectorist on their own treasure hunt!

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What are the best tools for identifying metal detecting finds?

The best tools depend on the type of find, but a combination of methods is often the most effective. Start with online forums and social media groups, where experienced detectorists can offer quick insights. Use Google Image Search and other visual identification tools for a first look. Reference books and online databases like the Portable Antiquities Scheme (UK) or the National Park Service (USA) are excellent for more detailed research. Consulting local experts or museums can provide additional confirmation.

2. How do I clean my metal detecting finds without damaging them?

Cleaning methods vary depending on the material. For metal objects, use a soft brush and mild soapy water. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive tools, especially for delicate items. For silver and other sensitive metals, consider using a silver polishing cloth or seeking professional advice. Always test any cleaning method on a small, inconspicuous area first.

3. What should I do if I find something potentially valuable or historically significant?

If you find something that could be of historical importance, like a coin or artifact, check the local laws regarding reporting such finds. In the UK, you may need to report the find to a Finds Liaison Officer (FLO) as part of the Portable Antiquities Scheme. In the USA, regulations vary by state and location, especially if found on public land. When in doubt, consult with a local museum or historical society.

4. How can I determine the age of my find?

The age of a find can often be estimated based on its style, material, and markings. Using reference books or online databases can help you compare your find to known examples. Posting clear photos on forums or consulting with local experts can provide more context. For coins, look for dates, mint marks, and symbols that might indicate their origin.

5. Are there any mobile apps that help identify metal detecting finds?

Yes, there are several apps that can help with identification. Google Lens and Google Image Search can be great for visually identifying objects by comparing them with similar images online. Apps like “Seek by iNaturalist” are also useful for identifying certain natural finds. For more specific artifact identification, consider using apps or databases provided by local museums or historical societies.

6. Can I sell my metal detecting finds?

Selling metal detecting finds depends on the local laws and the type of object. In the UK, items deemed as “treasure” must be reported, and selling them without proper authorization is illegal. In the USA, rules vary by state and the land where the item was found. Always research the legalities before selling any find, and consider getting an appraisal to understand its value.