Signal Types Explained

High Tones (VDI 70-99): Usually indicate copper, silver, or large coins. These are your prime targets!

Mid Tones (VDI 40-69): Can be gold rings, lead items, or hammered coins. Always dig these.

Low Tones (VDI 1-39): Often iron, but can hide gold (gold rings often read low). Dig if signal is consistent.

Tips

• A repeatable signal from multiple angles is worth digging
• Broken signals often = iron, but not always
• Deep targets sound different - learn your machine's deep signal
• Ground noise varies by field - adjust sensitivity

The Right Way to Dig

Step 1: Cut a neat horseshoe or flap shape, keeping one side attached (like a hinge).

Step 2: Flip the plug over onto a finds cloth or your hand to catch loose soil.

Step 3: Check the hole AND the plug with your pinpointer.

Step 4: Replace the plug, press down firmly, and stand on it to seal.

Golden Rules

• No one should know you were there
• Use a proper detecting spade (not a trowel for deep targets)
• In dry conditions, carry water to help grass recover
• Never dig in wet, boggy ground - plugs won't recover

Common Roman Finds

Coins: Look for emperor portraits, often green/brown patina. AE (bronze), Denarii (silver), Antoniniani.

Brooches: Plate brooches, knee brooches, crossbow brooches. Often decorated.

Military Items: Belt fittings, harness mounts, studs, strap ends.

Everyday Objects: Hairpins, needles, keys, spoons, cosmetic tools.

How to Spot Roman

• Green/brown patina on copper alloy
• Decorative patterns often include animals, geometric shapes
• Roman coins are typically 15-30mm diameter
• If in doubt, don't clean it - preserve patina for ID

What is Treasure?

Under the Treasure Act 1996, the following are legally "treasure":

• Objects at least 300 years old with 10%+ precious metal
• Groups of 2+ coins from the same find spot (300+ years old)
• Single gold or silver coins 300+ years old
• Objects found with treasure (even if not precious metal)

What To Do

Report within 14 days! It's the law. Contact your local Finds Liaison Officer (FLO).

• Don't clean finds - leave them as found
• Record the GPS location precisely
• Take photos before and after lifting
• The coroner will decide if it's legally treasure
• If treasure, you'll receive market value (split with landowner)