Over the years I have a long list on my computer and in my head of places to detect. Combining newer detectors with old and proven sites has become a blessing for my friends and me.

So, I took the plunge. I decided on the maximum I would pay for the claim, then placed my bid. A day later I received a congratulations e-mail that I was the high bidder, and oh, by the way, send us your money.

Standing on the edge of the canyon just after daybreak, I was filled with equal measures of excitement and trepidation.

After pinpointing and recovery, he had his first nugget of channel gold in his hand. This was also his first nugget with the new detector.