DETEXPERT SPOTLIGHT - JOEL JOKELAINEN

MEET JOEL JOKELAINEN - FROM CHILDHOOD CURIOSITY TO LIFELING PASSION

What began as a childhood fascination has grown into more than two decades of discovery for Detexpert Joel Jokelainen.

Raised in Finland, Joel first held a metal detector at around ten years old. His father had purchased one while exploring shipwrecks along the Finnish coast and watching 1700s Swedish coins emerge from the water sparked something that would shape Joel’s future. That early moment of curiosity quickly turned into a lifelong passion for uncovering history.

Over the past 20 years, Joel has discovered countless fascinating objects, each with its own story. While choosing a single favourite find is never easy, one recent discovery stands out for both its rarity and cultural significance – an Iron Age Seax (short sword) found in Finland. Only a handful have been uncovered in that region, making it a particularly meaningful link to the area’s early history.

When it comes to equipment, Joel has spent years relying on the EQUINOX 900, a detector he knows and trusts deeply. More recently, he has begun working with the MANTICORE, a transition that reflects how his detecting has evolved alongside Minelab’s technology. Early experiences suggest it may soon take over as his primary machine, particularly in more demanding conditions.

For Joel, however, the true value of metal detecting extends beyond the finds themselves. Over the years, it has introduced him to a global community, people brought together by shared curiosity, experience and respect for history. The knowledge exchanged, friendships formed and moments spent in the field alongside others are what continue to motivate him most.

Looking ahead, Joel’s dream detecting locations reflect his love of travel and deep interest in history. From Roman artefacts in Italy to ancient battlefields linked to Alexander the Great, Genghis Khan–era sites in Mongolia, and gold-rich regions of South America, the possibilities continue to inspire his next chapter of discovery.

This feature is part of our Detexpert Spotlight series, sharing the stories, experiences, and inspiration behind our global Detexpert community.