Dean Kinzer is an ancient coin enthusiast, YouTuber, and entrepreneur on a mission to bring the magic of history—literally held in your hand—to more Americans. What started as a family hobby, inspired by his collector father, has grown into a side business and educational passion. Dean is the founder of Kinzer Coins and co-host of the Ancient Coin Hour podcast, where he helps collectors and history buffs discover the stories and value behind ancient coins.

On this episode we talk about:

– Dean’s journey from growing up with a collector dad (who owned 13 Yugos!) to becoming obsessed with ancient coins

– The “tribute penny” of Tiberius—possibly the coin referenced by Jesus in the Bible—and how affordable ancient coins can actually be

– The wild stories behind some of history’s most fascinating coins, like Brutus’s “Ides of March” gold coin and the emperor who bought his throne for 66 days

– How ancient coins are more than metal—they’re pieces of art, history, and conversation starters

– The surprising abundance of certain ancient coins (you can literally buy Roman bronze coins by the pound!)

– Why the U.S. market for ancient coins is still wide open, and how Dean is working to popularize the hobby

– The business side: consignments, inventory, and the challenge of parting with pieces that tell powerful stories

– How to avoid scams, spot counterfeits, and start collecting with confidence

– The magic of holding a 2,000-year-old coin and the deep connection it creates to human history

– Monetizing your hobby in the digital age—YouTube, podcasts, and building a business around your passion

Top 3 Takeaways

1. History in Your Hand: Ancient coins aren’t just collectibles—they’re tangible links to the past, each with a story that can spark conversation and curiosity.

2. Monetize Your Passion: You can turn even the most niche hobby into a side business or educational platform with the right approach and a willingness to share.

3. Start Smart, Avoid Pitfalls: Learn the basics, connect with reputable sellers, and use resources like Ancient Coin Hour to avoid costly mistakes and enjoy the hobby.

Notable Quotes

– “There’s something different about holding something that’s 2,000 years old. It’s a connection to history you can actually feel.”

– “Every coin tells a story—some are worthy of a Hollywood movie.”

– “The U.S. market for ancient coins is wide open. There’s opportunity for collectors, investors, and storytellers alike.”

Connect with Dean Kinzer:

Website: kinzercoins.com

Instagram: @kinzercoins

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