A Century-Long Legacy
The coin collection of Danish butter magnate Lars Emil Bruun, safeguarded for 100 years since his death in 1923, is set to be auctioned by New York-based Stack’s Bowers. The collection, comprising 20,000 coins, medals, tokens, and banknotes, is estimated to be worth $72 million, making it one of the most valuable in the world.
Preserving History Amidst War
Bruun, deeply affected by the aftermath of World War I, intended for his collection to serve as a reserve for Denmark in case of another war. His will dictated that the collection be kept intact for a century before being sold. The meticulously arranged items have remained secure in a secret location, untouched for over a hundred years.
The Journey of a Collector
Bruun, who began collecting coins in the 1850s, built his collection over decades as he amassed wealth in the butter industry. His foresight and passion for numismatics led to the assembly of a diverse array of coins from Denmark, Norway, and Sweden. Despite attempts by some descendants to break the will, the collection remained untouched.
From Castle to Auction House
After residing in various institutions, including the former royal residence Frederiksborg Castle and Denmark’s National Bank, Bruun’s collection will finally be auctioned off. The National Museum acquired seven rare coins from the collection, showcasing the historical significance and uniqueness of the items that have been hidden from the public eye for a century.