AN/PSS-11 (P153, P158, P190) Mine Detector

There are several models of transistorized mine detectors from the 1960’s and 1970’s, such as the AN/PRS-7, and the AN/PSS-11. They may also be marked by the manufacturer’s model number such as P153, P158, P190. These are designed to detect metallic mines. They are flimsier than earlier models, and though everything being wired together without connectors makes it more reliable, it is also more inconvenient to use. These detectors are very sensitive if working right, and much easier to null out the background signal. A penny is easily detectable at four inches. I have used mine periodically to find property corner stakes.  In my garden I have found some coins, but also a lot of junk.

The audible tone is 2500 hz, compared to 1000 hz. in the SCR-625 tube (valve) type mine detector. There is a switch with three sensitivity levels. See lower part of page for recent ebay selling prices.

If you buy one of these models, be sure you buy one with spare modules and a carrying bag with belt clips if you plan to use it. About $50 to $100 seems to be the going price on ebay. Be sure to ask questions if the seller does not give detailed description, and be sure there is a picture of the interior of the electronics box. Even if the seller does not operate the detector, they can describe the physical condition. Does the arm extend fully without binding? Are the cables in good condition? Do the switches and knobs move freely? Are there modules inside the box, and spares, too? Is there any damage or condition issues? With limited experience with this model (two purchased and fixed), I would still expect there is a better than 50-50 chance it will work if there is no visible physical damage and the modules are in place. Look to see if the cold weather battery cord (like I attach 9 volt batteries with below) if you think you might try to run it. This is the detector I use to find my property corner stakes.

Dec 2021 I had two PP158 mine detectors, but sold my last one in Dec 2021. I will just be doing WWII SCR-625 mine detectors now.

The battery type for the AN/PSS-11 is not available, but a substitute battery can be made, or a 9 volt battery could be used. The substitute battery would cost about $12 to make, so I recommend starting out with a 9 volt battery for $2. If you leave the detector on, and run the battery down, $2 is less painful than $12. Note that the nipple end of the original battery is negative voltage, and the flat end is positive, which is backwards compared to the usual AA, C, or D cells. Watch the polarity if you make a substitute battery! In the receiver and transmitter assembly, the negative end goes in first, and the positive end is on top. This is a positive ground device. The battery adapter tube, for cold weather operation is the opposite.

There is an Energizer A544 6 volt battery, available at my local Wal Mart for $2.97, which could be used as a pair, if you make an adapter as in the website listed above. I would use a couple diodes or a small zener diode to drop the voltage down a little bit, as the AN/PRS-11 is rated at 10 volts not 12. My detector came with a BA3389/U battery, which is 12 volts. Physical dimensions are .655" or 16.8mm in diameter by 5.11" or 13 cm long. This is too tight a fit in diameter. It is tough to get out. The A554 battery is 13mm x 25.2mm, or approximately .5" x 1". With the smaller battery size, the life will be shorter.

These are some that have actually SOLD on ebay. Many sellers ask much more, but they don't sell, either.

Feb 2020 - A P158 detector in very good condition, no bag or case, sells for $66, partially working.

Mar 2020 - A P158 detector in very good condition (except headset), no bag or case, sells for $52, shipping $58.

Apr 2020 - A P158 detector in good condition, no bag, case or spares, sells for $95, with low shipping.

Jun 2020 - A PRS-7 in very good condition, with case, sells for $82, with low shipping cost.

Aug 2020 - A  PRS-7 in very good condition, with case, sells for $80.

Oct 2020 - A PRS-7 in very good condition, no case, sells for $123.

Dec 2020 - A P-158 in good condition, no case or bag, free shipping, sells for $150.

Feb 2021 - A PSS-12 type detector, in excellent condition, sells for $79. Uses a plus and minus 15 volt battery. 

Mar 2021 - A PSS-12 type detector, in excellent condition, sells for $137. Uses a plus and minus 15 volt battery. 

Mar 2021 - A P158 detector, with bag and spares (?), sells for $175.

Apr 2021 - A P158 detector, listed as "For parts only", sells for $125? With spares bag and case.

Dec 2021 - A AN-PSS-11 type detector, listed  as a AN-PRS-3, sells for $60.

Dec 2021 - A P158 type detector, no bag or case, sells for $65.

Jan 2022 - A P158, in poor condition, no case, bag or spares, sells for $68.

Oct 2022 - A PRS-7 in unknown condition, sells for $145.

Nov 2022 - A P158 in good condition, with bag but no case, sells for $30.

Aug 2023 - A AN-PRS7 in very good condition, with case, sells for $150.  Low shipping cost.

Dec 2023 - An AN-PRS-7 mine detector in excellent condition, sells for $110.

Jun 2024 - A P190 in good condition (?) sells for $62.

Jan 2025 - A P190 in excellent condition sells for $190.

Aug 2025 Two P190 detectors sell, one for $85, one for $245(?).

Technical Manual is TM 5-6665-202-13 

 Though there is not much I can offer in regards to online support, I can be contacted at deweyhassig@gmail.com

Some finds in my yard with my P158 mine detector:

I use a ACE 300 modern metal detector now.