Country kid turned lifelong detectorist, I grew up exploring with my dad’s old Whites Coinmaster and now run all the social media for the Treasure Valley Metal Detecting Club. From backyards in North Dakota to Idaho’s fields, my passion is connecting people, history, and the thrill of the hunt—both online and in the dirt.
My Journey Into Metal Detecting
From Backyard Adventures to Club Leadership
I grew up in the country with my mom, dad, and younger brother. Some of my earliest memories are of us out in the backyard, sweeping my dad’s old Whites Coinmaster metal detector over the dirt, hoping for treasure. We found all sorts of things—old nails, coins, and even a mysterious oval metal plate with the letter “B” on it. Those hunts sparked a lifelong curiosity for what’s hidden beneath our feet.
A Hobby Reignited
After nearly a decade away from home—serving in the military and traveling extensively—I returned to North Dakota to live close to my dad for about five years. In 2008, I moved out to Boise, Idaho, where my mom and brother live. Fast forward to 2016, I finally purchased my own Garrett AT Pro metal detector and rekindled my passion for metal detecting. Since then, I’ve added a few more metal detectors to my collection. A Garrett AT Max in 2021, then a Garrett AT Gold later that year, and now most recently I purchased a Minelab Equinox 800. Each new detector has opened up more ground and new possibilities in the field.
Joining and Building a Community
In 2019, I went looking for a local club and found Conn’s Wampum Hut. I thought they were a club or part of a club, but they just helped people get detecting permits for the Treasure Valley. They had closed up before I could even visit them, that’s when I discovered Gem State Metal Detecting Club—They were a group of detectorist that had a Facebook group and a monthly meeting at the time. I offered to help them by building a website and all the accompanying social media, and together we rebranded as the Treasure Valley Metal Detecting Club. I set up all the social media, built this website, and now handle everything digital, plus the audio/visuals at the meetings.
Why Metal Detecting?
For me, metal detecting is about more than just finding coins or relics. It’s about connecting with history, the land, and other people who share that same sense of curiosity. Whether I’m out in a field, helping a club member learn their new machine, or organizing a group hunt, I’m always chasing that next signal—and the story that comes with it.
My Books
The research and passion behind this site eventually turned into something bigger — a full publishing catalog. I’ve now authored 33 metal detecting books covering permissions, laws, locations, gear, and techniques across all 50 states. Whether you’re just getting started or you’ve been swinging a coil for years, there’s something in the list for you: My Metal Detecting Books →
I’ve also written 51 ghost town books for those who like to combine the history hunt with the treasure hunt: My Ghost Town Books →
You can browse my full catalog on Amazon here: amazon.com/author/smittysahn
Connect With Me (Us)
- YouTube
- X (Twitter)
- Collaborate: Email to discuss partnerships: treasurevalleymdc @ gmail.com
“Every signal is a story waiting to be uncovered. The real treasure is the journey and the people you meet along the way.”
~ Jason
