April 17, 2025

Ancient coins meet 3D technology

UCalgary graduate student uses advanced rendering techniques to make rare coins digitally accessible

Marina Fischer and Josiah Lansang look at UCalgary's coin collection

Marina Fischer and Josiah Lansang inspect UCalgary's collection of ancient coins LCR Staff

When he was 12, Josiah Lansang’s grandfather gave him an old Filipino coin that had been passed on to him from his grandmother. The family heirloom ignited an interest in the study of coins – or numismatics.

Several years later, as a computer science student, Josiah met Marina Fischer, when he took her Ancient Numismatics (GRST 445) course. Fischer is the Curator of Numismatics for UCalgary’s Nickle Galleries, and very well known in the coin world.

Josiah was fascinated to learn more about the history of ancient coins and the challenges involved with making coin collections accessible to the public. Those challenges include deterioration related to frequent handling, security, lighting, and fixed displays that limit visibility of the whole coin.

When he enrolled in a graduate rendering course (CPSC 691) with Dr. Mario Costa Sousa, Josiah saw an opportunity to combine his personal and professional interests. Costa Sousa taught concepts of realistic metal visualization which helped Josiah imagine an application for ancient coins. Using technology, he could address challenges around displaying coins and making them accessible to a wider audience.

Josiah went to work creating 3D renderings of a coin using the physically based rendering techniques and technology he was learning in class.

“Compared to a 3D scan, a rendering offers a better approximation of the true nature of an object. Scans often lack surface nuance and lightning interaction that renderings can simulate. When you create it dynamically, you can better simulate what the coin actually looks like”, explains Josiah.

During the Fall 2024 semester, Josiah saw Fischer at a Calgary Numismatics Coin Show. He asked her if she was looking for any volunteers for upcoming events or initiatives. Her answer blew him away.

Fischer explained she was looking for a student who had experience with 3D coin modeling. Previously, she had worked with the Schulich School of Engineering and LCR staff to create scans of coins. But she had no idea how to use the scans. “Do you happen to know anyone making 3D images of coins?” she asked.

Delighted, Josiah explained that he was doing exactly that in his “physical foundations of illuminations techniques” course. They agreed to collaborate.

A Chinese silver token from the late Qing Dynasty (1875–1912), used as unofficial local currency, featuring intricate Chinese script and symbolic designs on both sides.

Josiah Lansang

First, he made basic visualizations of the coins using the existing 3D scans. Then, he increased realism using the same techniques he had developed in class, adding texture, paint colours and elements like “tarnish”, “corrosion”, and “dirt” using a randomized algorithm.

With Fischer’s numismatic expertise, Josiah was able to create a dynamic rendering framework that replicates RTI-like effects interactively. This digital platform supports scholarly analysis and museum exhibition enhancement. It also promotes the preservation of delicate artifacts by reducing the need for physical handling.

The result is a remarkable, detailed 3D image that enables the viewer to rotate a coin and swap sides to see the other side of the coin. The viewing experience is very similar to holding a coin in the hand and rotating it.

“It is exactly what I learned in my computer science class,” enthuses Josiah. “I’m so happy to be able to work on this project – to combine my major (computer science) and my hobby (love of coins).”

Fischer is equally enthused about Josiah’s work. “This was a big project that pushed Josiah to learn advanced 3D imaging tools and come up with new modelling techniques,” explains Fischer. “It’s not just about preserving important cultural pieces — it has also opened up fresh ways to make them more accessible and easier to study in a field that’s usually pretty specialized.”

Josiah’s real-world application of classroom knowledge was instrumental in securing an NSERC Canada Graduate Scholarship – Master’s program. The program offers financial support to high-calibre scholars, making it possible for them to concentrate more fully on their studies. Josiah hopes to continue working with Fischer, perhaps exploring applications for other metals.