- Tell us about yourself.
My name is Michał Antczak. I work as an inspector for the Warsaw Metro. Privately, I’m a happy husband to Magda and a proud father to my four-year-old son Staś, who already shares my passion for treasure hunting. I’m also the president of the Misja Skarb Foundation, through which we carry out historical and exploration programs. The “Misja Skarb” show has gained immense popularity in Poland, and our discoveries have been widely covered by both national and international media.
Together with my colleagues, Łukasz “Cichy” and Dawid “Prospektor,” I’m proud to represent Minelab in Poland. Minelab detectors, especially the Manticore model, are indispensable tools in our searches. Their precision and advanced technology have allowed us to make many significant discoveries that shed new light on history.
- What interested/attracted you to buy your first metal detector?
It all began during a history lesson at school, where I learned that a military skirmish had taken place near my hometown of Słomin. I was fascinated by the idea of discovering something left behind from those events. With the help of my parents, who contributed to my allowance, I purchased my first metal detector. My initial finds—a silver bracelet and a coin (boratynka)—confirmed that this would be a lifelong passion.
- When did you use your Coiltek coil first & how did you find this experience?
Unfortunately, current weather conditions are not suitable for field testing the Coiltek 18” Mythtek coil. However, stationary tests have already made a huge impression on me. This coil offers incredible potential for detecting objects buried at great depths. I am confident it will lead to groundbreaking discoveries, and I look forward to sharing those stories with you soon!
- How has metal detecting benefited your lifestyle?
Metal detecting is not just a hobby but a mission. Through the Misja Skarb Foundation, we not only uncover history but also share it with others. We are frequently invited to schools across Poland to talk about history, metal detecting, and the importance of responsible exploration. Educating the next generation is a priority for us, and inspiring young people is invaluable.
Additionally, we organize national rallies for enthusiasts of metal detecting, providing opportunities to share experiences, search together, and build community. We are also planning an international rally next year, to which we would be delighted to invite you, Coiltek! Events like these bring people closer together and inspire those who share this unique passion.
- What advice would you give to someone wanting to start metal detecting?
The most important thing is to gain knowledge—about both the laws regulating metal detecting and the history of the area you plan to explore. Joining a community of detectorists is also invaluable, as it allows you to learn from experienced peers and avoid common beginner mistakes. Patience and respect for history are essential to fully enjoy this hobby.
- What has been your most significant experience or find to date?
Our searches have resulted in many remarkable discoveries. One of the most significant was the recovery of the wreck of a Soviet Pe-2 bomber near Wyszogród, which was shot down during World War II. What made this discovery extraordinary was that we were able to locate the families of the crew members, who had been searching for their loved ones for over 70 years. Meeting these families was one of the most emotional moments of my career. It’s a long and fascinating story, which I hope to share with you someday.
Another extraordinary find was a 15th-century papal bulla discovered in Brzezie near Opatów. Its historical value, linked to Antipope John XXIII, is immeasurable.
Through our Foundation, we also had the honor of discovering a 16th-century compass in Frombork, which may have belonged to Nicolaus Copernicus. It was found in a garden where the astronomer worked on his masterpiece, De revolutionibus orbium coelestium.
Recently, during research on local partisan history, we identified the site where weapons taken from German gendarme Dering in 1943 were hidden.
In addition to these finds, we have uncovered hundreds of coins from the reign of John II Casimir, silver coin hoards from the time of Sigismund III Vasa, and many other hidden treasures and deposits. Each of these discoveries has its own story, worthy of a longer conversation.
- Who or what inspired you to start detecting?
My first inspiration was my history teacher, who told stories about local wartime events. He sparked my passion for uncovering the past. Later, I was inspired by other enthusiasts I had the chance to work with. Today, I aim to inspire others, especially young people, through the work of the Misja Skarb Foundation.
- Please provide your social media handles: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok.
- Facebook:
- https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100001206675648
- https://www.facebook.com/share/kmaRnq2wJ6y3c1kT/
- YouTube: https://youtube.com/@dawid_prospektor?si=mSm8fstXkTecLGeZ
- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kilermisjaskarb?_t=8rjiMF2Nq9G&_r=1
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kiler_misja_skarb/profilecard/?igsh=MWsyejgzODY2eGRoZQ==