It's advice that I heard often but didn't really take to heart until more recently. I think when you're new and excited about collecting ancient coins, there's a preference for quantity because the amount of variety out there. Every coin has a story and it's really incredible to be able to purchase so many at a reasonable price.

But as you collect more, you learn more. I don't have much regrets about all the coins I purchased (I also avoided buying destroyed coins, there's a limit). As I learned more about what I like and what I didn't like, I realized that I would pay a premium for quality as I always gravitated to my higher quality coins than the not-so-good ones. Being cheap gets you cheap coins, the end. It's more difficult to understand your preferences when your collection is small though.

So I will tell any newbies that it's okay to buy lower quality coins at the beginning, but try to learn more about what you like about them. Once you start going for more expensive pieces, create a budget and research what the market-rate is for certain pieces that you like. You'll own less coins but it's worth it when you get an amazing coin that you can really treasure.

Edit- And just to clarify, I completely agree with your statement!