I have found most of my really neat artifacts visually but have started to use electronics. Yup, I got a metal detector for my birthday and never even hinted that I wanted one. My wife has told me to be careful, she can read my mind:)
An acquaintance found a platinum ladies wristwatch. He's also found wedding and school rings, bracelets, etc.
About 10 years or so ago, some folks were caught "prospecting" on the Navy base in Yorktown, VA. They were fined and their finds, (Civil War artifacts), were confiscated.
The guys who have been metal detecting for awhile all say that if you stick with it you'll find something worthwhile.