PERMISSION LETTER
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The following is a permission letter which I have used many time to successfully attain access to detect property for coins.  You will notice that I make no mention of "sharing" my finds.  I do not believe in  sharing unless the circumstances are unusual.   Let your conscience be your guide.  Massage this letter to fit you and remember, always be neat, courteous and thankful.  Best of Luck! 
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DATE!
 

Mr.XXXXXXXX

This may sound like a strange request, so let me introduce myself:  My name is (Your Name) and I have lived in (Name of Town) for (Length of Time). I am (Your Age) years old, married with four children.  Normally I would prefer to approach you in person, however I feel that a letter before hand is a better emissary than just knocking on your door at an inconvenient time and invading your privacy.

I have been engaged in the hobby of metal detecting for twenty years and find it a healthful, enjoyable pastime that allows me to meet many interesting people. The thrill of finding old coins, buttons, etc. is very exciting to me.

Recently, I have researched information that your property and the area surrounding it goes back many years. I would like to obtain permission for myself and a friend to detect your property.

I want you to understand that I always respect the property that I search and try to leave it in the same condition that I found it.  Normally the targets are no deeper than 4 or 5 inches and I retrieve them such that the ground appears not to be disturbed.

In addition, I would like to offer my services to you.   Perhaps you or someone you know has lost a valuable ring, a cache or a farm tool. I would be willing to assist just for the thrill of the search.

I have enclosed a self addressed envelope for your convenience and would be happy to meet with you if further discussion is required.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

(Your Name)
(Telephone Number)

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 Good Luck with This Letter, it has worked well for me!
"Jim Vokes"
Be sure to follow up with a phone call if you do not get a response in a week.   Sometimes the letter acts like an "ice breaker" to refer to when you call.  

When I call, I just let them know that I am the one who wrote the letter and would like to answer any questions or concerns they might have.  I try to emphasize my respect for their time and their property.    Be respectful and courteous and you WILL be successful.

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