Nice IHP, Alan. What's that 1888 doing at a Civil War battle site? Must have been dropped by a later visitor (graverobber?).

Thanks, Mark. This is exactly the feedback I needed. Yes, if you could send the link to the exact package you suggest, I'd appreciate it. Yes, I want the M9 if you recommend it. I assume that means I don't need the M8. How about the larger coils (M11 and M15)--do you recommend that I get both or just one?

@Mark Dayton Thanks, Mark. This is still timely. I'm ready to pull the trigger on buying a Manticore package but will give you a few days to work on High Plains. Looks like you are recommending a package with the 9" coil. For the larger coils (M11 & M15), I'm in So Cal but don't do much beach hunting. My main activity is relic hunting at inland (dry) sites. What's the best for relic hunting--M11 or M15? Or should I get both? I will go with your recommendation and am looking forward to getting a new Manticore.

My main advice would be to concentrate on older parks, especially those before 1950. Go online and search for park history. You should be able to find a few older parks. If you detect those, wheats should be there and not difficult to find. Silver is more difficult but is also doable. Try areas close to trees, restrooms, rocks, etc. I also find silver in lawn areas but less so because those areas have often been cherry picked.

One other thing, James. When detecting with my Nox 800, I have noticed that wheats and pre-1983 Memorials typically ring up 22-25, whereas zinccoins ring up 19-20. By watching for the #s for wheats, you can increase your chance of getting them. If you use another detector, the #s would be different for you but I'm sure there would still be a spread in the #s between wheats and zinccoins.