Techniques for Metal Detecting Zinc Pennies
Metal detecting is an exciting hobby that allows enthusiasts to uncover hidden treasures buried beneath the surface. One common find during metal detecting sessions is zinc pennies, which were minted between 1982 and 2019 in the United States. These coins pose a unique challenge for metal detectorists due to their composition and conductivity. In this article, we will explore various techniques and tips specifically tailored to help you successfully detect zinc pennies.
Understanding Zinc Penny Composition:
Before diving into the techniques, it’s crucial to understand why these coins differ from their predecessors made of copper or bronze. Starting in 1982, the U.S. Mint transitioned from using copper alloys (95% copper) to a zinc core coated with a thin layer of copper (97.5% zinc). This change was primarily driven by rising copper prices.
The shift in composition affects how metal detectors respond to zinc pennies compared to their older counterparts. Due to its high iron content, zinc has lower electrical conductivity than copper or bronze coins, making them harder for standard detectors to identify accurately.
Choosing the Right Metal Detector:
When it comes to finding zinc pennies effectively, having the right equipment makes all the difference. Here are some key features you should consider when selecting a metal detector:
1. Adjustable Discrimination: Look for detectors with discrimination settings that allow you to differentiate between different types of metals based on conductivity levels.
2. Target ID: A target identification feature can be invaluable when hunting for specific coins like zinc pennies since they have distinctive conductivity patterns.
3. Ground Balance: Ensure your detector has ground balancing capabilities as this will help eliminate interference caused by mineralization in soil or other environmental factors.
4. Sensitivity Control: Adjusting sensitivity can enhance your chances of finding deeply buried coins while reducing false signals caused by nearby trash or mineralized soil.
Techniques for Detecting Zinc Pennies:
Now that you have the right tools, let’s dive into some techniques specifically designed for detecting zinc pennies:
1. Discrimination Settings: Begin by setting your metal detector to discriminate against iron and other low-conductivity metals while favoring higher conductivity metals like copper or silver. Experiment with different settings until you find a balance that allows you to detect zinc pennies consistently.
2. Target ID Interpretation: Familiarize yourself with how your metal detector displays target IDs for different coins. Zinc pennies typically produce lower numbers on the target ID scale compared to copper or silver coins due to their lower conductivity.
3. Slow and Steady Sweeping: When searching an area, move your metal detector slowly and steadily in a side-to-side motion, overlapping each sweep by about 50%. This technique ensures thorough coverage of the ground and helps maximize your chances of finding hidden zinc pennies.
4. Investigate Mixed Signals: Zinc pennies often register as mixed signals due to their unique composition. If your detector produces an inconsistent signal or shows varying target IDs, it could be worth investigating further as it may indicate a buried zinc penny.
5. Get Closer to the Ground: To improve detection accuracy, keep the search coil close to the ground surface without touching it directly. This proximity helps increase sensitivity and enhances your ability to identify targets accurately.
6. Pinpointing Mode: Once you receive a positive signal indicating a potential zinc penny, switch your detector to pinpoint mode (if available). This feature provides more precise location information, allowing you to dig more precisely around the targeted area rather than relying solely on visual cues from target IDs.
7. Grid Search Technique: Use a grid search pattern when exploring larger areas systematically. Divide the site into smaller sections and work through them one at a time using slow sweeps in parallel lines until covering the entire area thoroughly.
8. Digging Techniques: When digging for potential targets like zinc pennies, use a handheld pinpointer to narrow down the search area. Dig small and precise plugs to minimize damage to the surrounding ground, and always fill holes responsibly.
Conclusion:
Detecting zinc pennies can be challenging due to their unique composition and lower conductivity compared to other coins. However, with the right equipment and techniques, you can increase your chances of finding these elusive treasures. Remember to choose a metal detector with adjustable discrimination settings, familiarize yourself with target ID interpretations for zinc pennies specifically, and employ slow sweeping motions while keeping the coil close to the ground.
By using techniques like grid searching and pinpoint mode when necessary, you’ll be well on your way to unearthing more zinc pennies during your metal detecting adventures. Happy hunting!
Metal Detecting Mastery 