The remarkable 20,000-piece coin collection of Danish butter magnate Lars Emil Bruun, valued at $74 million, is set to be auctioned in Copenhagen, marking one of the most significant numismatic events in history. The collection, featuring rare coins and medals from Denmark, Norway, Sweden, and England, dates back to the Viking era and is expected to draw bids from collectors worldwide, including some of the wealthiest individuals.
Lars Emil Bruun, born in 1852 into poverty, built a fortune through his butter export business and developed a deep passion for coin collecting from a young age. His dedication resulted in what is considered the most valuable non-U.S. coin collection ever assembled. The collection has remained untouched for over a century, kept in reserve by Bruun’s descendants in accordance with his will. Fearing the devastation of war, particularly after World War I, Bruun entrusted his historic collection to be safeguarded in Copenhagen for 100 years.
The auction, conducted by Stack’s Bowers, will begin on Saturday with the sale of the first 286 coins. Among the highlights is a coin minted in 1496 for Denmark’s King Hans, which is expected to fetch up to €600,000 ($663,900). This particular coin, likely minted for King Hans’ personal use during his travels across Europe, showcases Denmark’s stature as a significant power during that era.
The collection has already been showcased in locations including Hong Kong, Europe, and the United States to attract global interest. The auction is set to continue over the next few years, with coins ranging in value from under $100 to over $1 million. According to Brian Kendrella, president of Stack’s Bowers, potential buyers range from high-profile individuals featured on Forbes lists to everyday coin enthusiasts with a deep appreciation for history.
While the collection’s historical significance and value have sparked widespread excitement in the numismatic community, the auction proceeds will benefit Bruun’s direct descendants, as stipulated in his will. Although the family has remained largely private, this auction represents an extraordinary opportunity for collectors and history lovers to acquire rare artifacts that have been hidden away for a century.
As the auction begins, Lars Emil Bruun’s incredible legacy as both a businessman and a collector is sure to captivate the attention of coin enthusiasts and historians alike.
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