Common questions

Is it legal to metal detect in PA?

Is it legal to metal detect in PA?

Metal detecting is allowed in Pennsylvania, but there are a few conditions. Metal detecting is allowed in most state parks, but it’s limited to certain areas. For example, metal detecting is not allowed in areas where it may conflict with park operations. It is also not allowed in any fenced-in swimming areas.

Where is it legal to metal detect in Pennsylvania?

Local Rules and Regulations In Pennsylvania, metal detecting is allowed in virtually every state park. No permit is required. However, you can’t exceed the confines of what is considered “reasonable metal detecting”. There isn’t a lot of information as to what qualifies as “reasonable metal detecting”.

What treasures can you find with a metal detector?

7 Most Awesome Treasure Hauls Ever Found with a Metal Detector

  1. Pirate Treasure. This is the real stuff.
  2. A 2 lb Meteor.
  3. A 1913 Ford Model T.
  4. This Terrifying Mask.
  5. The Mojave Nugget.
  6. An Awesome Sword.
  7. The largest gold artifact collection in the history of England.

What is the most valuable find with a metal detector?

Hand of Faith
The largest gold nugget ever found using a metal detector, the 960-ounce (27.2kg) Hand of Faith was discovered by Kevin Hillier near Kingower, Australia back in September 1980.

Do you need a permit to metal detect in PA?

Individuals who want to use a metal detector in a state park must receive prior approval from the specific park manager on-site at the park and report items which are found and will be removed from the park.

Can you metal detect at Gettysburg?

The possession of metal detectors on park property is strictly prohibited. Relic hunting by the use of metal detectors or other means is prohibited and violators will be prosecuted.

Can I keep treasure I find?

If the found property is lost, abandoned, or treasure trove, the person who found it gets to keep it unless the original owner claims it (so actually, unless the original owner claims it, the rule is “finders keepers”).

Has anyone been rich metal detecting?

Most people don’t expect to get rich with their detector. You might not want to rush out and quit your day job, but you can most certainly make some money with a metal detector if you do your research and locate good areas to hunt. About $75 worth of small gold nuggets found with a Makro Gold Racer metal detector.

Can a metal detector find gold?

For instance, all metal detectors will find gold but there are different types made that are more sensitive to and specifically for gold. So, if you are solely interested in locating gold jewelry, you will want to select a detector made specifically for this purpose. Some metal detectors are water proof.

Why are metal detectors illegal?

The Antiquities Act of 1906 and The Archaeological Resources Protection Act of 1979 are federal laws that were created to protect history and make it illegal in almost all cases to metal detect on federal land. Metal detectors are banned in all US federal and national parks.

Can you take artifacts from Gettysburg?

The culprits could have been professional collectors trying to sell what they found, although most artifacts aren’t worth much, or they could have been casual hobbyists gathering items for themselves. Either way, it’s against the law to remove anything from a national battlefield.

Where to go for metal detecting in PA?

If you want to hunt for historic items with a metal detector in Pennsylvania, it is almost always best to look for places on private lands. Get permission from the landowner prior to detecting. This way you can enjoy your day metal detecting without worrying about getting in trouble.

Where are the hidden treasures found in Pennsylvania?

There are many stories about buried treasures in Pennsylvania. Just like the case with many other states, most of the treasures are hidden in caves, old mines, ghost towns and sometimes on private property. Most of the buried treasures yet to be found were buried by the outlaws in the early days of settlement in the state.

Where to find coins with a metal detector?

Pennsylvania has a rich history and is a fantastic place for finding some buried coins and treasure using your metal detector. There are an abundance of old towns and settlements which present some of the best places you can find coins, relics, and some hidden treasure.

Where to find lost silver coins in Pennsylvania?

Public areas with high traffic such as playgrounds, school grounds, old drive-in theaters, and other such gathering locations are perfect places for finding lost coins and other valuables in Pennsylvania. Most of the stuff you will find here is modern, although sometimes an old silver coin will turn up at these places.

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Ruth Doyle