How do you know if an ancient coin is authentic, what makes it valuable, and how has third-party grading changed the world of coin collecting?
In this episode of the Greysheet Podcast, host John Feigenbaum sits down with world-renowned ancient coin expert David Vagi of NGC and numismatic authority Ursula Kampmann for a fascinating discussion about ancient coins, coin authentication, grading, and the evolution of the global coin market.
David Vagi explains how NGC Ancients developed its unique grading system, evaluating strike quality, surface quality, and wear rather than relying solely on a traditional numerical grade. He also discusses counterfeit detection, the challenges of authenticating ancient coins, and how third-party grading has made ancient coin collecting more accessible to new collectors.
The conversation also explores how the internet, digital photography, and online auctions have transformed the rare coin market, along with the differences between American and European approaches to trust, certification, and collecting.
Plus, John, Ursula, and David debate an important question: Are we protecting coins as valuable collectibles, or preserving them as historical artifacts?
In this episode:
• David Vagi's approach to ancient coin grading and authentication
• How NGC Ancients evaluates strike, surfaces, and wear
• Ancient coin counterfeits and the challenges of determining authenticity
• How AI and online research are changing ancient coin identification
• The growth of online coin auctions and digital coin collecting
• American vs. European attitudes toward third-party grading
• Why coin preservation and proper handling matter
• How grading services help introduce new collectors to numismatics
• Ursula Kampmann's insights from the international Coin Conference in Budapest
• The debate over coin values, historical significance, and preservation
Whether you're an experienced numismatist, a U.S. coin collector curious about ancient coins, or just getting started in the hobby, this discussion offers valuable insights into one of the most fascinating areas of coin collecting.
Remember to like, comment, and subscribe for more numismatic content!
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Greysheet & Red Book November 9, 2026 12:27 pm