Frequently

Asked

Questions

Ancient bronze coin depicting a bearded man in profile, wearing a crown or headdress, surrounded by Latin inscriptions.
Bronze coin with a profile portrait of a man with a headdress and the words 'CONSTANTINVS AVG' around the edge.

New to Ancient Coins? Start Here.

Ancient coin collecting doesn’t have to be confusing or expensive. This guide answers the most common questions from people who are brand new to ancient coins and want to start safely and confidently.

What exactly is an ancient coin?

An ancient coin is a real piece of money used in the ancient world, usually between 600 BC and AD 1500. These coins were struck by hand and circulated in daily life.

Every ancient coin is:

  • A genuine historical artifact

  • Touched and used by people who lived thousands of years ago

  • Unique — no two are exactly alike

Are ancient coins authentic?

Yes — when purchased from a trusted source.

At Kinzer Coins:

  • Most beginner coins are NGC-certified

  • Every coin is vetted for authenticity

  • Clear descriptions explain exactly what you’re buying

Authentication is the most important thing for new collectors.

Are ancient coins expensive?

They don’t have to be.

Many people are surprised to learn that authentic ancient coins can cost less than modern collectibles.

Beginner-friendly options often include:

  • Roman bronze coins from $25–$75

  • Coins from the time of Constantine the Great

  • Biblical-era coins like the Widow’s Mite

  • Affordable NGC-certified ancient coins

You can start without a large investment.

Is it safe to buy ancient coins online?

Yes — if you buy from a reputable dealer.

Beginners should avoid:

  • Online marketplaces without guarantees

  • Sellers who cannot explain the coin

  • Coins without authentication or attribution

Kinzer Coins exists to remove these risks for new collectors.

How do I know what I’m buying?

Every beginner coin at Kinzer Coins includes:

  • The ruler or authority

  • Approximate date and age

  • Historical background

  • Certification details when applicable

Our focus is education, not confusion.

How should I store ancient coins?

For beginners:

  • Keep coins dry and at room temperature

  • Store them in holders or certified slabs

  • Avoid handling raw coins excessively

NGC-certified holders provide long-term protection.

Why start with Kinzer Coins?

Kinzer Coins is built specifically for people new to ancient coins.

We focus on:

  • Beginner education

  • Authenticity and certification

  • Affordable starting points

  • Clear explanations

  • A safe, welcoming entry into the hobby

Our goal is to help you confidently hold your first piece of history.

New to ancient coins? You’re in the right place

Kinzer Coins exists to help beginners safely explore ancient history — one authentic coin at a time.

What does “New to Ancients” mean?

“New to Ancients” is for people who have never owned an ancient coin before — or who want a clear, safe, and trustworthy place to begin.

At Kinzer Coins, “New to Ancients” means:

  • Authentic ancient coins only

  • Clear explanations (no jargon)

  • Affordable entry points

  • Coins you can understand, trust, and enjoy

You don’t need prior knowledge to start.

Is ancient coin collecting only for experts?

Not at all.
Ancient coin collecting is one of the most beginner-friendly historical hobbies when done correctly.

Many people start with:

  • A single Roman bronze coin

  • A coin connected to biblical history

  • An affordable, certified ancient coin

Kinzer Coins is designed specifically to help beginners start safely.

What does NGC-certified mean for beginners?

NGC-certified ancient coins are ideal for beginners because they:

  • Are verified as genuine

  • Are properly identified and attributed

  • Come sealed in tamper-evident holders

  • Remove uncertainty and guesswork

For first-time buyers, certification provides peace of mind.

What is the best ancient coin to start with?

Good beginner coins are:

  • Affordable

  • Historically meaningful

  • Widely collected

  • Easy to understand

Popular first coins include:

  • Roman bronze coins (3rd–4th century AD)

  • Coins of Constantine the Great

  • Biblical-era Judaean coins

  • Certified ancient coins labeled for beginners

These coins offer history without risk.

Did ancient coins really circulate during biblical times?

Yes. Coins from Judaea and the Roman Empire circulated during the time of Jesus and the New Testament.

Some coins mentioned in the Bible — such as the Widow’s Mite — are known and collectible today, making them meaningful entry points for new collectors.

Should I clean my ancient coin?

No. Never clean ancient coins.

Cleaning can permanently damage the coin and reduce its historical and collector value. Certified coins are already protected and should be left as-is.

Can ancient coins increase in value?

Ancient coins are best collected for:

  • History

  • Education

  • Enjoyment

Some coins may appreciate over time, but beginners should focus on learning and collecting, not speculation.

Is ancient coin collecting a good first historical hobby?

Yes. Ancient coins combine:

  • History you can hold

  • Art and craftsmanship

  • Storytelling and education

  • A tangible connection to the past

For many collectors, their first ancient coin becomes the start of a lifelong interest.