I have read it is a good machine. They still make and sell them. If they were not selling they would not be making them. If they were junk they wouldn't sell. Though your question is how will it work for prospecting. Machine was designed for gold if I am correct. I believe the tech. involved is a little older but that does in no way mean it is outdated or incapable. Now you have one. So it is up to you to learn to use it to its FULL potential. With any tool or technology that is the primary limiting factor. Then the question becomes "will I out grow this machines ability". I have a Minelab Xterra 705 and for me the answer is probably not anytime in the near future. I will buy one or 2 more machines but for completley different reasons and applications (more or less).
Go dig Gold (or coins). Its all good.
Jeff