5 Best Metal Detecting Finds in Alabama

Ever wondered what hidden treasures lie beneath Alabama’s rich soil and sandy shores? Join us on a thrilling journey of discovery as we unveil some of the most incredible metal detecting finds in the Heart of Dixie!

Alabama is a very cool place to Metal Detect due to its rich history. I was able to visit Alabama beaches, state parks, ghost towns, and many other places several times for metal-detecting sessions organized by clubs and organizations.

During those trips, I collected many valuable finds in Alabama with the help of expert local metal detectorists in Alabama.

Plus, I’ve conducted several interview sessions with expert Alabamians to know what they have found while treasure hunting.

Based on my experience and collected data from local detectorists., let me share with you finds you could come across in Alabama.

So, here are the best metal detecting finds in Alabama,

1. Civil War Relics
2. Colonial and American Coins
3. Jewelry
4. Native American Artifacts  
5. Lost Personal Items

But there’s a lot more to know about treasures in Alabama!

So, in this article, I’ll explore the best metal-detecting finds in Alabama with the locations you can find them.

Furthermore, I’ll answer some frequently asked questions as well.

Let’s explore!

Best Metal Detecting Finds in Alabama

When it comes to metal detecting and treasure seeking, Alabama is one of the top places. 

The country is rich in gold and undiscovered riches, and the weather is excellent for metal detecting. 

The experience is very exciting, and you never know if you’ll come upon gold, coins, jewelry, or items from the American Civil War.

The regulations governing metal detecting in the Yellowhammer State of Alabama are complex, so it’s important to do your research and comprehend them.

Let me list down the best finds you can come across in Alabama.

1. Civil War Relics

Alabama played an important part in the American Civil War, and you may come across bullets, buttons, belt buckles, and other military relics from that time.

Let me list down a few places where you can look into Civil War Relics. 

But make sure you get relevant permissions and approval from the authorities.

Here’s the list of locations where you can find Civil War relics in Alabama,

• Battlefields– The Battle of Mobile Bay site, the Battle of Selma site, or the Tallassee Armory Historic Park are just a few of the many preserved Civil War battlefields in Alabama.
• Sites for Camps and Encampments– During the Civil War, Alabama saw the establishment of several military camps. Camp Blount in Guntersville, Camp Watts in Huntsville, and Camp Anderson close to Florence are a few famous examples. You might find prospective campground spots by looking into historical documents and maps.
• Historical Trails and Markers– Alabama is home to a number of Civil War-related trails and markers that honor important occasions and places. These can be great places to use a metal detector, especially around well-known battle sites or historical sites.

Check out the Best Places to Metal Detect in Alabama!

2. Colonial and American Coins

It might be exciting to discover early American and colonial coins in Alabama. 

There are still a few places where you can have a chance to unearth these riches by metal detecting, even if such findings might be more uncommon in comparison to other regions with older histories.

Let me list down a few places where you can look into Colonial and American Coins. 

But make sure you get relevant permissions and approval from the authorities.

Here’s the list of locations where you can find Colonial and American coins in Alabama,

• Historic Towns and Settlements– A few towns in Alabama are remnants of the Colonial and Early American eras. One of the oldest cities in the area is Mobile, which was established in 1702. Take a look around the historic districts, town squares, and other nearby locations.
• Plantation Sites– Alabama had a large number of plantations being built throughout the Colonial and Early American periods. These locations may hold promise for discovering antique coins and relics. To locate the locations of old plantations, look for historical documents and maps in the area. Do not enter private property without authorization.
• Waterways– During the Colonial era, rivers, streams, and lakes were frequently used for trade and transportation. Consider investigating sites around ancient waterways where communities or groups may have existed.

3. Old Jewelry

Metal detectors are useful for finding lost jewelry like rings, necklaces, and bracelets that are frequently left in public spaces or parks. 

Alabama metal detecting for jewelry may be a thrilling activity since you never know what priceless and expensive objects you can find.

Let me list down a few places where you can look into Jewelry. But make sure you get relevant permissions and approval from the authorities.

Here’s the list of locations where you can find old Jewelry in Alabama,

• Beaches and waterfront areas– Numerous individuals visit well-known beaches like Gulf Shores or Orange Beach, where they run the risk of unintentionally dropping their jewelry in the sand or water. Findings from metal detecting near the seashore or in the vicinity of beach access points can be valuable.
• Public Parks and Recreation Areas– Local residents who participate in a variety of activities frequently visit parks and recreational areas. Finding lost jewelry items can be successful in locations close to playgrounds, picnic tables, or sports fields.
• Historic Sites and Ancient Homesteads- Alabama has a long history, and the state is home to several historic sites and ancient homesteads. These places, especially those from the 18th and 19th centuries, have the potential to provide precious jewelry that has been lost or buried through the years.

Read to know the Best Beaches in Alabama to Metal Detect!

4. Native American Artifacts

Metal detecting is an exciting opportunity to engage with Alabama’s rich indigenous past and find Native American artifacts. 

To preserve cultural heritage, it’s crucial to approach this work with respect and tact.

Let me list down a few places where you can look into Native American Artifacts. 

But make sure you get relevant permissions and approval from the authorities.

Here’s the list of locations where you can find Native American Artifacts in Alabama,

• Known Archaeological Sites– Do some research on Alabama’s well-known archaeological sites, then visit them to see and learn about the history and culture of the Native American tribes who once called the region home. It is essential to leave artifacts alone and to notify local authorities or archaeological groups of any discoveries.
• Riverbanks– In order to have access to resources and water, many Native American tribes were located close to rivers. Your chances of discovering artifacts may rise if you explore riverbanks, particularly those close to well-known historical sites or locations where there is evidence of previous human activity.
• Public Parks and Natural Reserves- There is evidence of Native American habitation in certain parks and nature reserves in Alabama. There may be designated places where artifacts have been recovered or walking routes in certain regions. Be mindful not to disrupt or take anything away from these relics while you observe and enjoy them.

5. Lost Personal Items

Almost every day, people lose items. Keys, pocket watches, and even military artifacts like dog tags can all be discovered.

Let me list down a few places where you can look into Lost Personal Items. 

But make sure you get relevant permissions and approval from the authorities.

Here’s the list of locations where you can find metal items in Alabama,

• Parks and Recreational Locations– People commonly go to parks and recreational areas, such as picnic spots, hiking trails, and beaches, where they could unintentionally lose their personal things. These areas may serve as effective beginning points for your investigation.
• Sports amenities- Because of the large crowds that frequent sports fields, stadiums, and golf courses, it is more likely that people may lose valuables like jewelry, wallets, or keys. The managers of the facility should be contacted in advance to request permission.
• Campgrounds- Campgrounds might be a good place to look for misplaced personal things. If you’re looking for anything while camping, try the designated camping locations or popular meeting places.

My Metal Detecting Journey in Alabama

Despite these findings, let me narrate to you the most interesting stories of my Metal Detecting Journey in Alabama and my experience knowing the valuable finds I could find there.

An Old Abandoned Home

I once experienced Metal detect in one of the Oldest Homes in Alabama. It was almost abandoned for a decade.

I took prior permission from the owner before I started digging in. OMG, seriously it looked creepy!!

But the most interesting part is the findings I could come across. The weather was a bit windy but I still managed to find them.

Let me list you down with the finds I came across so that you may too give it a try finding in Old abandoned places.

• An old Gold plated Chain and Pendant
• Few Antique Coins
• A knife
• Metal Piece of an Axe

Also, I came across other small finds like bottle lid caps, small toy metals, etc. Make sure you give it a try and find more valuables than me.

A Park in Alabama

This might kinda sound illegal, but trust me I got prior permissions from the relevant authorities before I dig in. The park was covered with PINE TREES!!!!

It was a fine evening and I went hunting with my new XP Deus. You’d be surprised to know what I came across, it was all valuable COINS. Let me list some of them.

• 4 Mercury dimes of 1934
• 2 Silver Coins of 1942
• A 1998 Quarter Dime
• Some other coins where the date was erased

Trust me, I really could come across many of them. If you are interested in finding coins, visit places like parks and public places to find them.

Gulf Shores, Alabama

I love Metal Detecting at Beaches because the environment and the wind is so satisfying. I watch the waves while I metal detect and that really gives me a piece of mind!

I took prior permissions before metal detecting and also followed the correct guidelines mentioned. 

It was a busy day at the beach but I managed to find many things near the volleyball court, shoreline, and on the sandy beach.

Let me list down some items I came across,

• 2 Nickel coins of 1976
• A big ring named with initial “A”
• Some Metal Beads
• A cute Silver Dolphin Pendant

Also, I could come across more items. If you are also interested, visit some picture-perfect beaches like this and detect more finds.

That’s it, folks! Now you know all the best metal detecting finds in Alabama with the locations you can find them.

Now let me share with you several tips that I’ve learned while metal detecting in Alabama which will help you as well if you’re a new metal detector in Alabama seeking advice from experts.

Some of the below tips were collected during the interviews of local expert detectorists in Alabama.

So, just keep reading! 

Tips for Metal Detecting in Alabama

As someone who has always loved metal detecting, I can attest to the fact that it is a hobby that may really pay off in Alabama, with the possibility of discovering relics and riches that help to illuminate the state’s rich history.

If you want to engage in metal detecting in Alabama, keep the following points in mind,

• Respect the rules and laws: Learn about and get familiar with the laws that apply to metal detecting at the local, state, and federal levels. There can be limitations on the usage of metal detectors in some places. Always get the required licenses or authorizations before metal detecting lawfully.
• Respect Private Property Rights: Before metal detecting on private property, obtain permission from the proprietor. When required, make careful to get written permission. Always observe the property owner’s restrictions and requests.
• Avoid Protected Areas: Without the necessary permission, do not metal detect in state or national parks, animal reserves, historical sites, or any other type of protected area. Many of these locations have stringent rules against metal detecting.
• Environmental considerations: Take the environment into account. Do not trash, disturb wildlife, or harm the environment. To reduce digging and interruption, use a portable pinpointer.
• Suitable Equipment: Invest in a metal detector of high quality that fits your requirements and degree of experience. A digging tool, headphones, and a pouch to carry your treasures are among the items you should make sure you have.
• Safety: Be conscious of any dangers around you. Put on suitable clothing, bug repellant, and sunscreen. Keep hydrated and tell someone where you’re going and what you’re doing.
• Join a Local Metal Detecting Club: Meeting other experienced detectorists, exchanging expertise, and learning about promising areas may all be accomplished by joining a local metal detecting club or online forum.
• Moral Obligation: Uphold moral principles when metal detecting. To lessen your influence on the environment, fill in any holes you dig, take out any rubbish you uncover, and adhere to the “leave no trace” philosophy.

Alabama, in my opinion, is an amazing option for your metal-detecting needs. 

The state of Alabama is perfect for this activity due to its lovely surroundings, rich history, pleasant weather, and liberal legislation.

Alabama is home to the legendary treasure of the outlaw Jesse James, rumored to be hidden in the caves of northeast Alabama.

www.discovery.com

So, let’s answer some frequently asked questions.

FAQs

Did I cover all you wanted to know about: Best Metal Detecting Finds in Alabama

In this article, I deeply discussed the best metal detecting finds in Alabama with the techniques, their historical values, and many more.

Some of the best metal detecting finds in Alabama include Civil War relics, antique coins, and Native American artifacts. Enthusiasts have made significant discoveries in historic sites, battlefields, and along the beaches, uncovering items that tell rich stories of the state’s past.

Furthermore, I’ve answered some frequently asked questions as well.

Hope I’ve covered all you wanted to know about the best metal detecting finds in Alabama in detail including experts’ tips.

If you’re an Alabamian or an outsider, the mentioned treasures and places will be your next hotspots to treasure hunt. 

Don’t forget to share your adventure stories with us in the comment section. Happy treasure hunting in Alabama!