The massive coin collection of Lars Emil Bruun, a Danish tycoon, which was prohibited from being sold for a century per his will, is officially going to auction and could become the world’s most valuable coin collection.
What Makes Lars Emil Bruun’s Coin Collection Special?
Lars Emil Bruun, a wealthy businessman in the Danish butter industry, amassed a vast collection of coins, banknotes, and medals over six decades. After his death in 1923, his will contained a peculiar stipulation: the entire collection must be preserved as an “emergency reserve” for Denmark in case the national collection was destroyed. If everything remained stable after 100 years, the collection would be permitted to be sold for the benefit of his descendants.
With the 100-year ban now expired, Bruun’s collection will be auctioned next month. This is the most valuable international coin collection ever to be sold, with an estimated total value of around $72.5 million (over 1.8 trillion VND). The collection includes approximately 20,000 items, and the auction will take place over multiple sessions.
The highest auction item is a gold coin from the late 15th century, featuring the image of a Danish king.
Bruun’s coin collection not only holds monetary value but also carries significant historical importance. Bruun began collecting coins in 1859 after receiving several coins from a deceased uncle. Although born into a wealthy family, Bruun faced the loss of family fortune as he grew up. He started a butter business with a small loan and gradually became a successful entrepreneur and a renowned coin collector.
For Bruun, coin collecting was not merely a hobby; it was a way to find peace. He once shared that when feeling anxious, observing and studying coins helped him feel relaxed. He was also one of the founders of the Danish Numismatic Society in 1885.
What Highlights the First Auction?
The first auction, taking place on September 14, will feature over 280 items from Bruun’s collection, including gold and silver coins from Denmark, Norway, and Sweden, dating back to the 15th century. The highlight of the auction is a rare gold coin from 1496 belonging to King Hans, the first king of Denmark, Norway, and briefly Sweden. This coin could sell for as much as $672,510.
A Norwegian coin from the 17th century.
Bruun’s collection has garnered great interest from the numismatic community worldwide. The gold coin from 1496 is not only the first gold coin minted in Denmark but also the first coin with a clear date. It is a unique piece in private hands and is regarded as the “gem” of the collection.
Before the auction, the coins have been showcased at various fairs and exhibitions, and they will continue to be displayed in Copenhagen just prior to the auction.
