Digital Social Hour: Why Ancient Coins Are the Next Big Investment Trend | Dean Kinzer | Episode #1144
Host: Sean Kelly
Guest: Dean Kinzer, Ancient Coin Expert from Kinser Coins
Release Date: January 27, 2025
Introduction to Ancient Coins
In this episode of Digital Social Hour, host Sean Kelly engages in an enlightening conversation with Dean Kinzer, a renowned expert in ancient coins and the founder of Kinser Coins. Dean passionately introduces listeners to the fascinating world of ancient numismatics, emphasizing its relevance and investment potential in today's market.
Dean Kinzer [00:33]: “I have this huge passion for it. So in terms of my kind of collective business, I have, what's it called, my podcast, the Ancient Coin Hour...”
Historical Significance of Ancient Coins
Dean delves into the origin of coinage, tracing it back to 650 BC with the Ionians of modern-day Western Turkey. He explains how ancient coins were more than mere currency; they were powerful tools of propaganda and storytelling, reflecting the values, victories, and leaders of their time.
Dean Kinzer [03:09]: “As soon as the first coin was minted, the first coin was counterfeited.”
He discusses the evolution of coin design to prevent counterfeiting, highlighting the intricate artistry that went into each piece. Notable historical figures, such as Croesus of Lydia, played pivotal roles in developing coin denominations, setting the foundation for modern numismatic practices.
Investment Potential and Market Dynamics
Addressing the investment aspect, Dean explains that the market for ancient coins is still underdeveloped compared to modern American coins. This presents a unique opportunity for investors to capitalize on the rising demand as awareness grows globally.
Dean Kinzer [01:57]: “I think the market is still developing. So if you start buying these now, maybe the demand goes up because they become more popular.”
He emphasizes the finite nature of ancient coins, which inherently increases their value over time. Despite market fluctuations due to economic downturns, the long-term trend for ancient coins remains upward, driven by their historical significance and scarcity.
The Beauty and Craftsmanship of Ancient Coins
Dean passionately describes the artistic excellence of ancient coins, particularly those from the early Greeks and other great civilizations. Unlike modern machine-minted coins, ancient coins were handcrafted with meticulous detail, each telling a unique story through their designs.
Dean Kinzer [05:00]: “They took that very seriously and they made some of the most beautiful art of that time period.”
He shares his admiration for the intricate details found in coins like the Tyche tetradrachim, which not only depicts a goddess but also symbolizes the city it represents, adding layers of meaning and historical context.
Connecting with Ancestry and Personal Stories
For many collectors, ancient coins offer a tangible connection to their ancestral heritage. Dean recounts his personal journey, discovering his family's roots in Brundisium, Italy, and how this discovery deepened his passion for collecting coins that resonate with his lineage.
Dean Kinzer [10:01]: “When I went back into the history of my family, I looked up and found out my dad's side of the family came from Brundisium...”
This emotional connection extends to various interests, such as sports or business, allowing collectors to find coins that represent their passions and personal narratives.
Counterfeiting and Authentication
A significant challenge in the ancient coin market is the prevalence of counterfeit coins. Dean candidly discusses the commonality of fakes and the importance of purchasing from reputable dealers to avoid scams.
Dean Kinzer [20:53]: “Very common. That's why we created the podcast...”
He reassures listeners of Kinser Coins' authenticity by offering a return policy on counterfeit purchases, emphasizing trust and reliability in the numismatic community.
Notable Coins and Their Stories
Dean showcases several remarkable ancient coins, each with its own story:
-
Denarius of Julius Caesar [38:04]: Depicting Julius Caesar himself, this coin marked a significant shift in Roman norms by placing a living ruler's image on currency, challenging the republic's traditions.
Dean Kinzer [40:02]: “...he was the first person to put his own face on a coin in Rome. And why did he do that? Well, it signifies a lot.”
-
Malarison Coin from the Byzantine Empire [23:30]: Featuring Emperor Basil II, known as the Bulgar Slayer, this silver coin reflects the emperor's military prowess and the empire's resilience.
Dean Kinzer [24:00]: “This Byzantine emperor, Basil the Bulgar Slayer... was probably one of the greatest emperors of Rome.”
-
Christ Coins by Emperor Justinian II [33:11]: These coins depict Jesus Christ, symbolizing the intertwining of religion and governance in the Byzantine era.
Dean Kinzer [34:00]: “He minted two coins... One called the Christ coin and... the Young Christ.”
Modern Relevance and Technological Parallels
Dean draws parallels between the historical developments in coinage and modern economic practices. He highlights how contemporary issues such as currency devaluation and the shift towards digital transactions mirror ancient economic trends.
Dean Kinzer [28:20]: “There's no hard commodity in...”
Sean Kelly [28:32]: “...it's a penny?”
This discussion underscores the enduring nature of currency as a reflection of societal and economic changes.
Personal Anecdotes and Collecting Philosophy
Throughout the conversation, Dean shares personal anecdotes that illustrate his deep-rooted connection to coin collecting, influenced by his father's passion and the familial legacy of numismatics.
Dean Kinzer [09:04]: “My father was an avid collector... that's why it's called Kinser Coins.”
He encourages new collectors by emphasizing the accessibility and personal fulfillment derived from the hobby, irrespective of its niche status.
Final Thoughts: The Value Beyond Price
Dean passionately argues that the true value of ancient coins lies not just in their monetary worth but in the rich history and stories they embody. He believes that each coin serves as a bridge to the past, offering invaluable insights into ancient civilizations and their ways of life.
Dean Kinzer [41:59]: “The value is in the history. Right. This was there when that happened.”
He invites listeners to explore the hobby, assuring them of the profound satisfaction that comes from owning a piece of history.
Connecting with Dean Kinzer
For those interested in delving deeper into the world of ancient coins or starting their own collection, Dean provides multiple avenues to connect:
- Website: www.kinsercoins.com
- Podcast: The Ancient Coin Hour available on YouTube and Spotify
- Social Media: Instagram (@KinserCoins)
Dean also offers educational resources and a supportive community to help new collectors navigate the complexities of ancient numismatics.
Notable Quotes:
- Dean Kinzer [00:33]: “I have this huge passion for it. So in terms of my kind of collective business, I have, what's it called, my podcast, the Ancient Coin Hour...”
- Dean Kinzer [01:57]: “I think the market is still developing. So if you start buying these now, maybe the demand goes up because they become more popular.”
- Dean Kinzer [05:00]: “They took that very seriously and they made some of the most beautiful art of that time period.”
- Dean Kinzer [20:53]: “Very common. That's why we created the podcast...”
- Dean Kinzer [38:04]: “This denarius of Julius Caesar is important piece of history...”
- Dean Kinzer [41:59]: “The value is in the history. Right. This was there when that happened.”
Conclusion
Dean Kinzer's insightful discussion on Digital Social Hour sheds light on why ancient coins are emerging as a compelling investment trend. Combining historical richness with investment potential, ancient coins offer a unique avenue for collectors and investors alike to connect with the past while securing their financial future. Dean's expertise and passion make a convincing case for the enduring allure of ancient numismatics.